News > Let’s Beat the Peak Together

Let’s Beat the Peak Together

September 4, 2021

As a member of Stearns Electric Association, you know how to make smart energy choices that help you save money. But did you know that when you use electricity can be just as important as how much you use?

Throughout the day, energy use fluctuates based on consumer demand. Typically, most households use larger amounts of electricity in the morning when most people are getting ready for their day, and in the evenings when people return from work, cook dinner, wash clothes and watch television.

These times when people in our community are using more electricity at the same time are called “peak” hours. The cost for Stearns Electric to provide power is higher during these times because of the additional demand for electricity.

By shifting some of your energy use to hours when demand is lower, also known as off-peak hours, you can save money on your energy bills and help keep rates lower for our community.

Here are a few easy ways you can shift energy use to off-peak hours:

• Adjust your thermostat. During summer months, raise the thermostat a few degrees during peak hours.
• Wash full loads of clothes in cold water during off-peak hours.
• Run the dishwasher right before you go to bed, or air-dry dishes by opening the dishwasher instead of using the heated dry cycle.
• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. (Try to make this a daily habit, whether during peak or off-peak hours.)

There are many ways to save energy and money by making a few minor adjustments to your daily routine.

We’re here to help. Contact us at (800) 962-0655 if you have questions about your energy bill or for additional energy-saving tips.