Peak Alert
What does "Peak Alert" mean and how does it affect your electric bill? I hope I am able to explain this in words which are easy to understand.
"Peak Alert" is a term used by electric companies through radio and television to notify the public when a period of increased electricity usage is predicated (extremely hot or cold days). When you hear the alert it is important that you try to cut back on your electricity usage during these times. Don't wash and dry clothes,don't use the automatic dishwasher, don't take long hot showers, do turn off unnecessary appliances and lights.
Electric companies have to purchase the same amount of electricity 24 hours per day. The amount of electricity the company has to buy is based on the amount of "Peak Demand". When the electric company announces a "Peak Alert" warning it is because the company is approaching the level of electricity they are having to purchase. If the demand goes over what they already have to purchase then the " Demand Load" goes up and they have to purchase a higher amount daily whether it is used or not. This stays in effect for at least 18 months unless the "Demand Load" peaks again and is raised again.
Every time the "Demand Load' goes up it ends up costing you money because the company has to raise its rates to cover the cost of the added electricity.
Long term it is a good idea to pay attention to the "Peak Alerts" and try to conserve electric usage then so the electric company does not have to raise rates. By postponing your washing, showers and conserving your electric usage during the time of a "Peak Alert" until after the "Peak Alert" you are then using the electricity the company has to lose (but pay for) . It is not how much electricity you use but when you use it that has a big impact on price per kilowatt.
I hope I didn't confuse anyone reading this. If you have any questions or comments on this subject please leave a comment and I will try to answer your concerns.
Cheerily
IJK
good post