Electricity is shared by many different people within a grid, with usage (called grid demand) changing based on various factors. Peaks in grid demand occur during times of heightened electricity usage, such as extremely hot or cold days when air conditioning or heating systems are heavily utilized. These periods of high grid demand not only drive up electricity costs but also increase the risk of brownouts (partial loss of service) or blackouts (full loss of service). In order to avoid these events from occurring, and reduce the overall cost of electricity usage, it’s important to be able to manage the grid effectively. That’s where grid demand response programs come in.
Demand Response Programs help reduce the load on the grid by working with consumers to reduce their electricity usage, particularly during peak demand periods. During these peak times, utility companies will send out alerts to demand response program participants about high-grid usage. In turn, participants are encouraged to adopt energy-saving practices like turning off lights or reducing air conditioning usage. Utility companies offer various demand response programs, enabling consumers to lower their energy expenses or earn credits for the amount of energy they saved.
Demand response programs come in multiple forms based on different factors:
When you sign up for Emerald we find demand response programs to enroll you in, if available, with your utility provider. We find the program that makes the most sense for you. You can opt-in to these programs and increase your savings.
