Demand Side Management

Demand Side Management is the new catch phrase for energy conservation or reducing electrical demand. With the rising rates of electricity around the country, there is a heightened focus on "cutting back." Rate caps have already been lifted in MD, NJ and NY where rates during peak demand can be $.26 per kilowatt hour (on average we now pay around $.09 per kilowatt hour in south-central PA).

In 2009 and 2010, electrical rate caps will be lifted in Pennsylvania. Rates may increase as much as 30-55% and more time-of-day rates will be put in place, making electric rates higher during peak hours. "Demand Side Management" or "Demand Response"simply refers to taking a voluntary reduction approach to combat high energy prices. Reducing your electric usage also provides environmental protection through the reduction of CO2 emissions.
 
There are several ways to prepare for higher rates NOW:

• Install occupancy and sunlight sensors. If there's no need for lighting, turn it off automatically.
• Replace inefficient lamps throughout your facility. Metal halide lamps only last approximately 20,000 hours vs. high output T-8 and T-5 lamps, which last approximately 30,000 hours. Payback to replace 2'X4' fluorescent fixtures with the new T-8 lamp technology can be as short as 18 months and save thousands of dollars in electricity usage. There are also new 12-Watt, 50,000 hour LED lamps available that can replace standard 65W light bulbs and compact fluorescents.
• Dimmers are a simple way to lower your usage.
• Generators may eventually be more efficient than using power during peak hours.
• Energy management systems for HVAC units. These have been around for many years--if you don't have energy management, now may be the time to look into it.
• Put EnerNoc technology in place. Energy management services include rolling brown-outs to even out usage during peak hours.
• Generate your own solar power. Prices are continuing to come down making payback periods shorter. Keep in mind that solar energy technology will not save energy. People invest in solar technology because it is an energy produce--one that releases no noxious gases in the air.

Contact us for more information on these energy-saving ideas!