Shifting energy use away from peak times lowers costs, but how does it lower carbon?

Thanks to a member for asking this good question about our Summer Shift program. A few of you may wonder the same thing, so here's the answer of how you can help lower the cost of energy, as well as carbon emissions from co-op engineer Jarod Boerst.

As our co-op members know, the goal of Summer Shift and Beat the Peak programs is to put less pressure on the electric grid during times of high demand. It’s a voluntary way for energy consumers to help lower the cost of power (energy is more expensive during peak times), and it can also help avoid the need for additional investment in transmission and generation equipment, especially peaking plants, which is where we see the greatest impact on carbon.

Regional grid operators use peaking plants when energy demand peaks. Peaking plants typically operate on natural gas and diesel generation. They are important for their ability to come online and generate power quickly. While they are most flexible, they are also expensive and carbon intensive. If we can make peaking plants run less often, we can defer the need for them, which lowers both costs and carbon.

Instead of ramping up supply, we lower (peak) demand. Building and maintaining the electric system for times of the greatest need is like building freeways and bridges for rush hour or churches for Christmas and Easter. We need the capacity, but it’s more expensive and less efficient.

Another important note: The grid is less green during peak times. Summer Shift and Beat the Peak help shift electricity use to times when the grid is powered with more clean energy.

We appreciate your participation in Summer Shift and Beat the Peak! Learn more and enroll to receive Beat the Peak text alerts. Thank you!