No matter the season, a reliable flow of electricity is essential to ensuring Trinity Valley Electric Cooperative members stay comfortable and connected.
Here in Texas, we all know that summer temperatures often last well into fall, which means people spend more time indoors to avoid the heat and that air conditioners have to work overtime. This extra electricity causes spikes in demand, also known as energy peaks.
The electric grid is essentially a giant network of power lines that connects power plants and substations to homes and businesses throughout our state. All parts of the network must work together to make sure the flow of electricity stays balanced 24/7.
When the demand for electricity is higher than usual, power providers must ramp up production—whether from coal, natural gas, wind, the sun or other energy sources—and utilities pay more for electricity produced during the peak. These higher prices, along with the general increase in electricity use, are why you typically see higher bills during the hottest months.
In extreme cases, demand could overburden the available supply, causing electricity shortages. During these times utilities could be required to implement rolling power outages to reduce the demand for power and rebalance the grid.
But you can help ensure that we don’t get to that point.
When our area experiences extreme heat and higher demand for electricity, conserve power to keep costs lower. It’s easy—just watch the clock and avoid energy-intensive activities and chores during peak hours. TVEC’s peak hours this time of year are 4–8 p.m.
When we all work together to reduce energy use during peak times, TVEC can lock in lower electricity rates so everyone in our community saves. Conserving during peak times also eases pressure on the grid and helps balance the supply and demand of power.
There are many ways to lower your home energy use. Here are a few recommendations to help you save energy (and money) during the summer peak:
Set your thermostat a few degrees higher. If you have a smart or programmable thermostat, adjust the settings so your cooling system syncs with the off-peak hours.
Speaking of raising the thermostat, did you know ceiling fans can make you feel 4 degrees cooler? Switch on ceiling or oscillating fans in occupied rooms to supplement your AC. Be sure to raise the thermostat a smidge while fans are running for maximum energy savings. Remember, fans cool people (not rooms), so turn them off when you leave the room.
Plan energy-intensive activities like laundry and running the dishwasher for off-peak hours. Use automatic timers to run hot tubs, pool pumps, water heaters and other appliances in the same way.
Unplug electronics when they’re not in use, or use power strips to manage devices.
Close drapes and blinds during the afternoon to keep out unnecessary heat from sunlight.
When we all work together to beat the peak, our entire community benefits. Saving energy during peak times reduces your bills, keeps electric rates lower for all and relieves pressure on the grid.
