Understanding Demand

Demand is the rate at which electricity is used. In other words, it is the amount of electricity required to power all of your appliances, lighting, heating or air conditioning when they are operating at the same time.

Most residential and general service members are not currently charged for electric demand, but about half of Southeastern Electric’s purchased power costs are based on demand. We want to help members better understand how your usage and electric demand affects the system and overall costs for all members. Soon your monthly billing statement will include your demand information.

Adjusting your electric use to off-peak hours helps Southeastern Electric reduce peak demand charges, and those savings are passed on to members. When our area experiences extreme heat or cold and higher demand for electricity, it is considered an energy peak. The typical peak energy usage hours are 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. When we all work together to reduce energy use during these peak times, Southeastern saves on purchased power costs so everyone in our community saves.

Members can play a significant role in controlling the cooperative’s wholesale power costs. We encourage you to help manage our demand by using appliances during off-peak times or by participating in the load management program. Southeastern’s load management program which cycles water heaters and other appliances during peak energy use periods is a great way to effortlessly manage your demand. If we work together, we can better manage power costs for everyone. To learn more, call 1-800-333-2859.