Changing Energy Use Patters = New Demand Patterns

The way we use electricity has changed dramatically over the past several decades. As the electrical grid expanded in the 1950s, consumers primarily used electricity for lighting, small appliances, refrigeration, and farm equipment. Today, homes are more than twice the size they were then, with more electronic devices, and widespread use of air conditioning. The same is true for commercial and industrial facilities. As our lives and businesses have evolved, the demand placed on the grid has shifted from basic lighting and equipment to cooling systems, technology, and automated processes.

Why does this matter? Electric utilities must build and maintain a system capable of serving everyone’s highest simultaneous demand – not just their total energy use. We are not only using more electricity, but we are also changing when and how we use it. Air conditioning drives higher demand during the hottest days of the year. The growing adoption of electric vehicles has also added new demand to the system, which is why we incentivize overnight charging (when demand is lower) through special rates.

At PEC, we are adapting to these changing energy needs by strengthening our electric system, investing in infrastructure, and offering energy management programs, such as our Power Down for Energy Conservation. By working together to manage demand wisely, we can continue to provide safe, reliable, and affordable electric service our members depend on every day.