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PEC encourages members to join “Beat the Peak” program
5/31/2012 2:51:26 PM
At Pedernales Electric Cooperative, power costs account for the majority of the Co-op’s total operating expenses — around 65 percent in 2011. Co-op members can help control some of that expense by helping reduce peak power costs. As part of the Co-op’s ongoing effort to reduce costs, PEC is bringing back the Beat the Peak program.
The Cooperative pays a higher price for electricity during the peak use periods of 2-6 p.m. every day from June through September. The demand for electricity “peaks” during this time frame, when Co-op members and energy consumers across Texas use the most electricity. Because demand is so high, energy prices increase, and the Co-op must pass those costs on to members. The Beat the Peak program is designed to encourage members to shift energy use away from that peak period.
By working together, PEC and its members can Beat the Peak by reducing the power consumed during peak periods from 2-6 p.m. and consequently reduce power supply costs with simple steps such as:
• Raise the thermostat in your home by 3 degrees.
• Shift your use of hot water away from the peak-demand hours.
• Avoid using major appliances between the peak hours of 2-6 p.m.
The Beat the Peak program serves as an opportunity to reduce PEC’s costs. If every member shifts two kilowatt-hours of electric use to an off-peak time every day, PEC estimates it can save more than $2 million between June and September.
“PEC has a special partnership with its members because members hold a financial interest with the Co-op,” said PEC’s Chief Executive Officer RB Sloan. “I encourage our members to join the Beat the Peak program and help us reduce costs. When we save, our members save too, because this is their Co-op.”
The Beat the Peak program begins June 1, and members interested in volunteering to Beat the Peak can join online at www.pec.coop, by calling 1-888-554-4732 and speaking to a representative or by visiting any PEC office. More detailed information about the Beat the Peak program is available at www.pec.coop/BeatThePeak.