Dual Fuel Energy Management Program
Dual Fuel is a energy management program available to members who choose to install heating systems with two different sources of energy (dual fuel). When a member enrolls in the program, they are eligible to receive a discounted electric rate - saving both the member money on their monthly bill and PEC money on our wholesale power costs.
In exchange for the lower rate, PEC is given the ability to shed load during times when energy use on the grid is at its highest.
The Benefits:
- Members can take advantage of safe, exhaust-free heating.
- Reduced cost electricity through the dual fuel meter for months September through May usage.
- All usage through the dual fuel meter will be tax exempt for six months of the year.
- If a member has a dual fuel heating system, they can add an electric water heater to the dual fuel panel for additional savings on your water heating costs.
- Today’s electric grid is ‘greener’ than ever, so by using electric heat, you reduce your carbon footprint more than you can with propane or natural gas.
Here's How It Works:
- The member receives a junction box from the Cooperative that their electrician wires outside of the house. At this time, the electrician will also wire in the dual fuel panel, the meter socket, and any necessary control wiring.
- PEC then installs a receiver onto the junction box. When a peak energy alert occurs, the receiver gets a signal to go into an energy management event.
- During the event, the receiver will cause the main electric heating to turn off. The Member's system will then switch to the backup heating source.
- Once the event is done, the receiver will allow power back to the electric heating source and the backup heating source will turn off.
Energy Management Events:
- Energy management events occur in December, January, and February as well as June, July, and August.
- In December, January, or February, events generally occur between 5:00 and 8:00 p.m. During these months, there is a maximum of three energy management events.
- In June, July, or August, events generally occur between 3:00 and 6:00 p.m. During these months, there is a minimum of one event per month, maximum of four events each month, and no more than nine events total during the summer.
- Year-round, there is always a possibility for our power provider to call for economic control events.