Winter’s on its way, and so are peak demand events under the DR Leeway Option. Be ready to maximize your credits from the very first event. Here are a few steps you can take today.
What are peak demand events?
Peak demand events take place during the winter period, when the demand for electricity is especially high.
Your goal during these events? Reduce your power demand while they’re underway. In return, you earn credits that are applied to your electricity bill at the end of the winter period.
Peak demand events can take place:
- From December 1 to March 31, inclusive
- Monday to Friday, from 6 to 9 a.m. and from 4 to 8 p.m.
- On Saturdays and Sundays during the same hours (optional)
- Once or twice a day
When will you be notified of a peak demand event?
You’ll receive an email, a text message or both letting you know when the event starts and ends:
- By 3 p.m. the day before an event starting at 6 a.m. or before two events starting at 6 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- By noon the same day for an event starting at 4 p.m.
Choose the right measures for your organization
There are many ways to reduce your electricity use during peak demand events. Choose the measures that align with your goals and the way your organization operates.
Some are easy to implement and require little investment.
For example, you can:
- Slow down or pause an energy‑intensive process for a few hours
- Shut down non‑essential machinery or equipment and use the downtime to carry out maintenance
- Turn down heating in certain areas where possible
Remember: the most effective measures are tailored to how your organization operates and the constraints it faces.
Prepare your teams and processes
Once you’ve decided which measures to implement, put a clear process in place:
- Make sure peak demand event notification emails are sent to the right people.
- Go to your Customer Space to update the names and email addresses of the people who should receive the notifications.
Important: Start preparing today. Make sure the key people have the training they need and are ready to put your demand response measures into action. Don’t wait until winter has set in!
Simplify your response with automation
A building automation system (BAS) can automatically adjust your heating, air conditioning and ventilation systems. This will help prevent oversights and errors and make your measures more effective.
Did you know?
Did you know that you may be eligible for grants? Take advantage of enhanced financial support covering 75% to 90% of the eligible costs of your automation projects. It’ll be easier than ever to implement your demand response measures!
Conclusion
Planning ahead is one of the best ways to maximize your credits under the DR Leeway Option. The more carefully your plan your response, the easier it’ll be to make the most out of each peak demand event.
