Dear Member,
We want to thank you for your patience, cooperation, and support during the recent winter storm. Central Virginia was fortunate to avoid what could have been a devastating ice storm, but we truly appreciate everyone working together to be prepared and get through it safely.
With extreme cold still lingering, and more winter weather possible this weekend, energy use across our system remains high. We strongly encourage our members to "Beat the Peak" by reducing energy consumption between the hours of 6am-9am and 5pm-9pm on Tuesday, January 27 and for the rest of the week.
What Does “Beat the Peak” Mean?
Beat the Peak is about reducing electricity use during times when demand is highest—typically early mornings and evenings during extreme cold. When many homes are using a lot of electricity at the same time, it puts added strain on the electric system and increases the cost of wholesale power.
By shifting some energy use to lower-demand times, members help:
- Reduce stress on the electric grid
- Support safer and more reliable service
- Help keep costs lower for everyone
Steps to Reduce Energy Use:
- Set your thermostat to a steady, comfortable temperature and layer up when you can. Avoid turning your thermostat up too quickly at one time.
- Use alternative, non-electric heat sources such as gas logs or wood-burning fireplaces to supplement your heat.
- Spread out energy-heavy activities like laundry, cooking, and dishwashing instead of running them all at once. Times to avoid this week are 6am-9am and 5pm-9pm.
- Limit the use of large appliances or delay until after the cold spell, if possible.
- Take shorter showers and allow time between hot water uses to give your water heater a break.
Why "Beat the Peak" Matters:
- PJM, our regional transmission provider, is forecasted to hit a new peak for energy demand this week due to the extremely cold temperatures.
- CVEC pays the highest rates for electricity during these peak periods since demand for energy is highest.
- What you do today will help you in the future.
- Reducing your energy consumption during peak times helps reduce capacity and transmission charges that would be applied to the PCA next year.
- Your reduced energy usage will limit the amount of electricity that CVEC has to buy from the market during times when the price is much more expensive.
- January’s colder temperatures are leading to higher heating costs. Reducing energy use by limiting large appliances and using alternate heating sources can help ease the impact on your electric bill.
Stay Prepared:
Extreme cold and more winter weather are in the forecast this week and into this weekend. It is important to stay prepared.
- Replenish emergency supplies, including water, batteries, and flashlights.
- Ensure pets and livestock have warm shelter, adequate food, and access to water.
- Clear snow and ice from outdoor heat pump units and vents so systems can operate efficiently.
- Keep phones and backup chargers ready in case of additional outages.
Every small action makes a difference. When members work together to be prepared and reduce peak demand, it helps protect the electric system, supports safer restoration efforts, and keeps service reliable for our entire community.
Thank you for being part of Central Virginia Electric Cooperative. Please stay safe, stay warm, and continue looking out for one another as winter continues.
