Did you know that when you use electricity often matters as much as how much electricity you consume?
Meeting increasing demand
Electricity use fluctuates throughout the day based on consumer demand, and electric co-ops such as Tipmont must be able to provide enough electricity to meet the total energy demand during times of highest energy use, also known as “on-peak hours.” The cost of electricity increases during on-peak times when usage and the cost of generating electricity are the highest.
To reduce peak energy demand and save money, Tipmont offers a Time-of-Use (TOU) rate program to encourage electricity use during off-peak hours––when energy is less expensive to provide. Similar to saving money by attending a matinee, you can keep more money in your wallet by using electricity during an off-peak time period.
Tipmont’s TOU rates are based on the time of day you use electricity. If you shift your electric usage to “off-peak” times, we can pass along the savings with a lower kWh charge. “Off-peak” times include all weekends, most holidays, and weekday hours except 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. (see nearby chart).
How do I know if TOU is right for me?
Login to SmartHub and use the “Average Usage By Hour” to see when your energy usage is highest on average. If you find that your electric use tends to be outside of the 2-8 p.m. on-peak times, or if you think you could shift a good portions of your usage outside of these times, then time-of-use rates may be right for you.
Shifting your electricity usage
Electric rates based on time-of-use offer can help you lower your electricity costs without reducing the amount of electricity used. By performing some of your daily chores, like running the dishwasher or doing laundry during off-peak hours, you can save on your utility bill. In a similar vein, plug electronic equipment, such as computers, printers, TVs and power tools into a power strip, then turn it off during peak hours.
You can also put technology to work for you. If you have a programmable thermostat, adjust the settings so your heating/cooling system syncs up with the off-peak rate periods. Use automatic timers to run hot tubs, pool pumps, water heaters and other appliances in the same way.
Saving energy can be simple. By shifting your energy use to off-peak times, you have the power to save on your monthly energy bill. To learn more about why time-of-use matters, watch a short video above or, get started by calling Tipmont member services at (800) 726-3953.
