Beat the Peak Program

How we alert members:

When Farmers’ Electric is approaching a period when energy use is expected to be very high, we’ll issue what is called a “Beat the Peak” alert. You may see or hear the announcements on social media, on our website, or via texts and calls from the *CodeRED system. The Beat the Peak program aims to reduce electricity use during the time of day when power use peaks, such as winter mornings when temperatures are often at their lowest or late summer afternoons when temperatures are highest.

*CodeRED is a text/call alert service available only in Livingston County. For help signing up for CodeRED, click here.

How does this help members?

This does not necessarily mean that our energy supply is low, it is just a way for members to be mindful of how they are using their electricity. The idea behind Beat the Peak is to shift energy usage away from times when electricity demand is highest. Doing so could save the Cooperative and YOU significant money over time by keeping the wholesale power costs low and stable. 

This is a completely voluntary program, which benefits all Farmers’ Electric Cooperative members. Yes, you can use your electric appliances, but maybe run one appliance at a time instead of everything at once or postpone tasks that can wait.
 

Simple ways to conserve energy:

• In summer, raise your thermostat a few degrees.

• In winter, lower your thermostat a few degrees and add an extra layer of clothing.

• Turn off any unnecessary lights.

• Delay the use of major appliances like dishwashers and dryers until after the peak alert period has passed.

• Delay activities that require hot water, such as washing clothes, taking showers, or washing dishes.

• Consider grilling outside instead of using the oven or stovetop in the summer.

• Reduce the amount of time you use space heaters in the winter.

*Look for more ways you can help save energy usage and money by visiting our Energy Efficiency page.