PEAK ALERTS

A limited number of times throughout the summer months, Dairyland Power Cooperative, Riverland Energy’s wholesale power provider, is approaching a period when energy use is expected to be very high, we’ll issue a “Peak Alert”. This aims to reduce electricity use during the time of day when power use peaks, such as winter mornings or evenings when temperatures are often at their lowest, or late summer afternoons when the temperatures are the highest.

The idea behind this is to shift energy usage away from the times when demand is highest. Doing so could save the Cooperative and its member’s significant money over time by keeping the whole wholesale power costs low and stable. This is voluntary, and benefits all members.

When do peak alerts occur?

Peak alerts typically occur in the warmest summer afternoons, usually between hours of 2:00 and 6:00 p.m. During the months of June, July, and August, there will be a maximum of nine peak energy events, with no more than four in a given month. In the winter, peak alerts happen between the hours of 5:00 and 8:00 p.m.

How can I help during peak times?

Members are encouraged to avoid using appliances, adjust their thermostat, and turn off unnecessary items when a Peak Alert is issued.

If peak alerts do not resolve the demand issue, that is when we implement an emergency load reduction plan. 

The difference between a Peak Alert and Max Gen Alert:

• Peak Alert will be issued when energy use is expected to be very high. It does not mean there is a shortage of power, but means we can possibly avoid significant costs. Avoid using appliances, adjust your thermostat, and turn off unnecessary items.

• Max Gen Alert will be issued when we are informed by MISO to reduce energy use due to high grid stress. A rolling blackout could eventually occur and may happen without advanced notice during this alert. Reduce all unnecessary usage.

How will you be notified?

PEAK ALERTS: Notice of Peak Alerts are typically posted on the website and our Facebook page. Peak Alerts are also broadcast on local radio stations.

MAX GEN EVENT: We intend to send out an e-mail and text message to all who have that information on their account, as well as our website, social media, and the local radio stations. Please make sure we have your e-mail address on file as well as cell phone listed for texting. You can sign up for this information through SmartHub, or call our office and we can make sure we get that information.