CPUC website teaches how to reduce peak load spending
April 29, 2015
The Energy Update California website, a state initiative led by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), was designed to help Californians make more cost-effective decisions about energy use. Business owners and families alike will find extensive resources designed to help the state meet Governor Jerry Brown's energy-efficiency challenge. In addition to contractor databases and details on state incentives for energy efficiency, EnergyUpgradeCA.org offers practical tips on how Californians can improve the energy use of their buildings. One important page on the site explains the nuances of managing peak energy demand.
Taking advantage of dynamic pricing
Business owners can greatly reduce their costs by using time-varied energy rates to their advantage. Time-varied rate plans depend on demand, and the price of electricity goes up as energy demand intensifies. Peak demand in California usually comes during the hottest part of the day when air conditioners run at full blast. Energy Update California notes that hot summers force the state to rely on additional fossil fuel-generated power during peak demand times, so offsetting demand during these periods has environmental benefits as well. By reducing the amount of power utilized during peak load times, companies and households alike can take advantage of significantly reduced energy costs. Businesses that participate in shifting their peak demand can also qualify for financial incentives from the state. Potential savings in the long term (offset demand) and short term (government rebates) make investing in energy storage a keen business decision.
Storage ideal for shifting peak demand
Energy storage is a big game changer for the electric power system. Several California companies have already turned to energy storage as a means of shifting their building's peak load and reducing utility costs. According to HPAC Engineering, reducing peak demand can have a major impact on our power grid. In realization of this impact, utilities encourage energy usage during off peak periods.
