February 12th, 2012
Beat the Peak: Monday February 13th between 6 a.m.
and 8 a.m.
GREENWOOD, Del.-Because of the very cold temperatures over our region, Delaware Electric Cooperative and Choptank Electric Cooperative are "Beating the Peak" Monday, February 13th between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m. We are asking all of our members to voluntarily conserve or limit energy usage. During this time our membership will be using the greatest amount of electricity and, as a result, the cooperatives will be purchasing power from the market at extremely high prices.
During "normal" load periods we pay only pennies per kilowatt-hour for power. However, during "peak" demand or energy periods when the temperatures fall, we can pay up to one dollar per kilowatt-hour. We must pass these higher costs on to our members, which may have an impact on rates.
Between the hours of 6 a.m. and 8 a.m. on Monday, we are asking our members to turn off all unnecessary lights and appliances. We are asking our members to delay using major appliances like dishwashers, washing machines and clothes dryers.
Other important steps to take include closing window shades and adjusting thermostats DOWN 3 degrees during these "peak" times.