Due to extreme weather conditions, Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative issues an alert to help control the peak demand. At the time when the alert is issued we ask all of our members to help conserve electricity, in order to control the level of peak demand and ultimately the cost of power.
During the alerts, you can help in three ways:
- Reduce 50% or more lighting usage
- Change your thermostat setting three to five degrees
- Postpone major work that uses electricity
Paulding Putnam Electric stresses that there is not a shortage in electricity. Rather, Paulding Putnam strives to keep peak usage down, which in turn keeps customers’ rates lower. Demand is the measure of how much power is being used at any given time. A portion of what Paulding Putnam pays for electricity is determined by the peak demand.
During peak alerts Paulding Putnam also controls water heaters and air conditioning units on members whom have chosen to participate in our Radio Control Switch program. During peak alert times the radio control switch turns off water heaters for the duration of the peak and air conditioning units are turned off for a maximum of 12 minutes in a 30 minute cycle. Members who participate in the Radio Control Switch Program receive a rebate. They also are helping to keep the cooperative’s overall power cost down.
If you are interested in participating, please contact PPEC Energy Advisor, Peter Niagu at 1-800-686-2357 or via email at pniagu@ppec.coop