Why We May Need Your Help During a Peak Demand Alert

When extreme weather hits—whether it’s a summer heatwave or a winter cold snap—energy use across the community can rise sharply. Air conditioners, heaters, appliances, and business operations may all be running at the same time. This sudden increase in electricity use is called peak demand.

During a Peak Demand Alert, the overall demand for electricity is approaching the maximum capacity of the grid. While our team works around the clock to maintain safe and reliable service, short periods of very high demand can strain the system.

Why Your Participation Matters

Electricity must be generated and delivered at the exact moment it’s used. Unlike other utilities, it can’t be easily stored in large quantities. When demand spikes:

• Equipment operates under higher stress

• The risk of outages increases

• Energy costs for the community can rise

By making small, temporary adjustments, members play a critical role in keeping the grid stable for everyone.

How You Can Help

During a Peak Demand Alert, you may be asked to:

• Adjust your thermostat by a few degrees

• Delay using large appliances like dishwashers or dryers

• Turn off unnecessary lights and electronics

• Reduce non-essential business operations temporarily

These simple steps—taken together across thousands of homes and businesses—can significantly reduce strain on the system.

Working Together for Reliability

Peak Demand Alerts are typically short in duration, and your cooperation helps prevent broader service disruptions. By working together, we can maintain reliable service, control costs, and ensure that power remains available for essential services like hospitals, emergency responders, and critical infrastructure.

We appreciate your partnership in helping keep our community powered safely and reliably.