Frequently Asked Questions

Q1:   I don't remember Peak Alerts in the past. Why are they necessary now?

A:   There are a number of reasons why Peak Alerts are necessary today, and they all relate to supply and demand. Our community and the Upper Midwest simply demand more energy now than in the past, and though some new supply has been added to the system, it hasn't been enough to keep pace with demand. For example, the population of our region has grown, which means more people must be served by the same power plants. In addition, each household uses more energy now than in the past. Air conditioners are much more common than they once were, and new energy eaters such as computers and plasma TVs are often in several rooms in each home.

Q2:   What is the benefit of acting to conserve energy during a Peak Alert?

A:   There are a number of benefits for the community as a whole and for individual residents and businesses. For one, we keep a lid on rate hikes if we take action when a Peak Alert is announced. This is because electricity must be produced on demand, and during peak demand periods additional generators are required. These generators are more costly to operate, and, therefore, they drive up energy costs. By avoiding demand peaks, we can potentially save hundreds of thousands of dollars each year, which, in turn, helps keeps rates in line.

In addition to short-term cost savings, conservation can reduce our long-term need for additional power plants. When usage is at its highest, the energy system is reaching its limit, signaling the need for additional generators. Managing our use is a good way to reduce the need for more power plants.

Q3:   Does a Peak Alert signal a power shortage?

A:    Not necessarily. It's possible the peak in demand could be an isolated event in our community, and a power shortage would likely come as the result of an entire region running at high demand for an extended period. We have not faced this situation in the Upper Midwest , but if demand growth continues to outpace supply we could see power shortages, which can result in rolling brown outs. This has already occurred in the eastern and western United States .

Q4:   I'm at work during the heat of the day, so why is it important for me to conserve when I get home late in the afternoon?

A:   Believe it or not, energy use in our community often peaks after typical work hours (after 5:00 p.m. ). This is because most residents leave work at roughly the same time, and they all begin using power when they get home. That's why conserving until the end of the alert is so important.

Q5:   How do I know a Peak Alert has been issued?

A:   When a Peak Alert has been issued, it will be announced on our local radio stations. In addition, we send out an email that notifies residents of a Peak Alert. This list is only used for Peak Alerts, and is not used in any other manner.

Q6:   What time of day do I need to conserve energy during a Peak Alert?

A:   Peak Alerts are most often issued from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The precise period will be specified in the alert itself. Conservation throughout this period is helpful, but demand typically is at its highest during the mid to late afternoon ( 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. )

Q7:   What are the best ways to conserve energy during a Peak Alert period?

A:   Every little bit helps, and no single action is too small. Here's a list of a few steps you might take when a Peak Alert day occurs:

• Set your air conditioner thermostat no lower than 78 degrees and your dehumidifier no lower than 78%.
• Use electricity for laundry, running the dishwasher, ironing, cleaning, etc., in the early morning or late evening.
• Avoid using the oven during the heat of the day.
• Close your drapes to block the sun's heating rays.
• Unplug unnecessary electric appliances and equipment.
• Turn off decorative lighting.
• Keep exterior doors closed as much as possible.

Q8:   What else can I do to help?

A: It's important to conserve energy throughout the year, not just during Peak Alert periods. Here are a few other tips for conserving energy and saving money.

• Sign up for our load management program. You will see immediate cost savings on your utility bill and you help us avoid peak use periods as well.
• Look for the Energy Star symbol when you purchase appliances and other products such as compact fluorescent light bulbs.
• Consider an energy audit to get expert advice on how to reduce your energy use.

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