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We’re Here to Help You Save

May 12, 2025

When summer heats up, our electric bills tend to increase as air conditioners are working overtime, driving up home energy consumption. Stearns Electric Association is your local not-for-profit electricity provider, and we are committed to helping you beat the heat without breaking the bank.

As the temperatures get hotter over the next few months, we want to make sure you know about a range of energy-saving offerings designed specifically with you in mind. By taking advantage of these programs and services, you can manage your summer energy consumption and costs.

LOAD MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS
Load management programs help balance electricity usage across our distribution system, especially during peak demand periods. When you participate, you help lower system-wide energy demand, which supports a high load factor and reduces costs for everyone.

BUDGET BILLING
When you sign up for Stearns Electric’s budget billing plan, your energy bill is calculated by averaging your previous 12 months of use. With budget billing, your monthly energy costs are easier to budget and manage, especially during seasonal fluctuations when bills tend to increase based on the weather. Budget billing is a great option for anyone on a fixed income or those with highly variable seasonal needs.

REBATES
When you make upgrades or purchases to reduce home energy use, those smart decisions should be rewarded. Stearns Electric offers rebates on energy efficient appliances, heating and cooling equipment and more. Visit stearnselectric.org/save-money-and-energy/rebates/ to learn about our rebate program and how you can save money and energy for making smart energy choices.

YOU HAVE THE POWER
Small actions combined can have a big impact on summer energy bills.

The best way to lower energy use during summer months is to raise the thermostat to the highest setting that’s comfortable. Ceiling fans can also help you feel cooler, but remember to turn them off when you leave the room. On warm summer nights, fire up the grill to keep additional heat out of the kitchen. Remember to change air filters often so your cooling system doesn’t have to work harder than necessary.

Find more energy saving tips on our website or call the Co-op during business hours at (800) 962-0655 to discuss any of the energy and cost saving tips above.