Load Control
What's the Deal with Load Control?
You may have heard the term "load control" in communications from Nobles Cooperative Electric, but what does it mean and why is it important to our cooperative members?
What is Load Control?
Load control is when Nobles Cooperative Electric temporarily reduces electricity consumption during peak demand periods. These periods typically occur on the coldest days of winter and the hottest days of summer. By reducing demand, NCE helps stabilize the electric grid and avoids purchasing electricity at higher-than-normal prices.
Why is it Necessary?
Nobles Cooperative Electric, like many electric cooperatives, pays a demand charge for wholesale power. This charge is based on the highest amount of electricity used during a specific hour in a month – what's referred to as the monthly billing peak. Load control helps manage this peak and keep costs down for all members. One example would be that since Nobles Cooperative Electric is a member-owned electric distribution cooperative that is part of a larger electric grid stretching all the way from Manitoba, Canada, to Louisiana. This means that sometimes your AC load might be controlled when it's a comfortable 65 degrees in Minnesota, but super hot and humid further south, as we work together to balance energy needs across the entire grid.
How Does it Work?
Members who participate in voluntary energy savings programs, such as dual fuel, cycled air conditioning (AC), or off-peak water and space heating, play a key role in managing energy costs during peak times. These programs help control how much energy is purchased when prices are high.
In exchange for allowing our power supplier, Great River Energy, to exercise load control, participants receive a discounted energy rate.
How Often Does Load Control Happen?
Load control is implemented as needed to manage the monthly billing peak. While it might seem like it's happening more often, Nobles Cooperative Electric continues to control load less often than our contract allows.
Here's a breakdown of the maximum hours of control allowed for each program:
- Dual Fuel: 12 hours per day and up to 400 hours per heating season
- Interruptible Water Heating: Up to 8 hours per day, no maximum
- Cycled Air Conditioning (AC): Up to 6 hours per day and 200 hours per cooling season
Benefits for Everyone
Load control programs are a win-win for everyone. They help Nobles Cooperative Electric manage costs, which translates to lower energy rates for members. While it may occasionally cause inconvenience, load control is a critical tool for ensuring reliable and affordable electricity for all.
We appreciate your understanding and participation in these valuable programs!
Want to sign up?
Contact our team at 800-776-0517.
Have questions?
Your Cooperative team is here to assist with your membership and service questions.