During hot summer days, WG+E may ask customers on social media to reduce their electricity use during peak hours. These short periods are when demand for electricity across the grid is at its highest.
Lowering demand during these times helps:
· Keep electricity rates lower for Westfield
· Avoid buying expensive electricity
· Reduce monthly and annual transmission and capacity expenses
Even if customers do not pay a demand charge, using less electricity during peak times helps keep costs down for everyone in Westfield.
Who? We invite all customers to participate, from homeowners to small businesses to our largest commercial and manufacturing customers.
What? Voluntarily reduce electricity usage during the peak demand periods we announce.
When? Typically, peak demand occurs on hot summer weekdays in the late afternoon, especially a couple of days into a heat wave. This is when air conditioning units work their hardest to keep everyone cool during the heat of the day.
Why? Save money with little effort! We can all contribute to lower our peak costs. WG+E pays for peak demand monthly and annually. If we all take part in reducing our usage during those peak times, we can decrease our costs and help keep rates low and stable for everyone. You may not see a direct reduction to your bill next month, but know that everything helps in the long run!
How?
Residential (no demand charges on bill):
- Turn off lights when you leave the room
- Set your thermostat a few degrees higher during hot afternoons (tip: pre-cool your home an hour or two before the peak time to stay comfortable!)
- Run your dishwasher, laundry machine, and other large appliances before or after the peak times
- Use energy-efficient appliances
Commercial:
- Pre-cool two hours before the event to save money with little to no impact to comfort or operations
- Sample schedule:
- 11am – WG+E calls peak demand event for 2-4pm
- 1pm – decrease thermostat from normal 70° to 68°
- 2pm – increase thermostat from 68° to 72°
- 4pm – decrease thermostat back to normal 70°