You may wonder - why does an electric utility want me to reduce my consumption or lower my bill? The answer is that Delaware Electric Cooperative is different because we are a cooperative, owned by the members. Our goal is to provide reliable power at the lowest possible cost for everyone while encouraging energy efficiency.
During the time frame specified, members are asked to use energy wisely and follow these guidelines:
- Use appliances like clothes washers and dryers, dishwashers and other electric devices sparingly.
- Delay using hot water so that the demand for your water heater is less during the peak times.
- Set the thermostat on your air conditioning equipment or heat pump up 3 degrees during the peak time and be sure to use your ceiling fans and close your drapes to help the air conditioner even more.
- Learn more about your home's overall energy efficiency and find sources of energy waste.
- Take the Energy Efficient Home Tour at www.touchstoneenergysavers.com to learn valuable energy savings tips and download a free Home Energy Savings Guide.
- If you're purchasing new appliances or electronic devices, look for ones with the Energy Star rating. Visit the Department of Energy's web site at www.energystar.gov to find out more.
First, sign up for Beat the Peak alerts. If Delaware Electric Cooperative determines that a peak situation exists, we will communicate with you using e-mail and possibly text messaging in the future. You will also see our television messages on WBOC-TV during peak events or hear our messages on several of the local area radio stations.
The cooperative will also use social networking programs such as Twitter to communicate with our members. Follow our updates at twitter.com/deelectriccoop. On the days that you have received your notice, use energy wisely and try to limit the use of appliances and electric devices in the home. Also, set your thermostat up 3 degrees to reduce the load on your air conditioning equipment.
Secondly, sign up for your Beat The Peak indicator light. Using a device which plugs into a standard wall socket, members are notified when the electrical system is operating in a peak cost condition through a light indicator,audible tone, or text message. Learn more about the indicator light here.