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Energy Management Program
Member FAQ’s
- What is Energy Management? Energy Management (EM) systems are used to reduce peak electricity demand during periods of high energy use. In today’s energy environment of skyrocketing costs, peak periods of energy use are also the times when wholesale electricity costs the most. Reducing energy use during these times will help reduce costs for REMC and our members.
- What is the goal of the EM program? The program will help Orange County REMC better manage our costs, conserve energy, reduce the need to build new power plants, help the environment, and lessen the impact of rate increases. By participating, REMC members allow the installation of an EM switch to control their water heater and/or HVAC system during times when the demand for electricity is near its peak.
- How does the EM switch work? The switch is activated by an FM radio signal sent from radio station WUME in Paoli. The switch is connected to the water heater and/or HVAC system and it is operated for up to four (4) hours on the hottest or coldest days of each month. Because water heaters act as storage devices, members should experience no loss of hot water. When HVAC system compressors are cycled for brief periods (15 to 30 minutes each hour), the blower fan continues to circulate air during that time to maintain home comfort. LEDs on the EM switch show when the switch is in use. The switches are solid state and do not make noise when in use.
- What are the benefits? Utilization of the EM program will reduce demand charges on our wholesale power bill. In the long term, these savings will result in lower electric bills for our members. Participating members have the satisfaction of knowing they are helping to control energy costs and reduce the need for expensive new construction. There is no charge for the switch, REMC installs the switch and maintains the system at no direct cost to the member and we will remove the switch at any time a participating member becomes dissatisfied with the DSM program.
- How do I sign up? Just fill out this form, and you will be contacted by an Orange County REMC customer service representative to walk you through the process.
