What is Demand?

The word “demand” can have different meanings depending on the context.  When a toddler “demands” a cookie, he or she wants it right away.  If you “demand” your teenager turn off his or her phone, it’s not optional.  In terms of electricity, demand refers to the amount of power that must be available at any given moment. This is typically measured in 15-minute intervals.

Another way to think about it is: if you run your laundry, dishwasher, and oven all at the same time, you’re placing a much higher demand on the electrical grid at that moment than if you spread those activities out over time. This is true whether it’s home appliances or equipment used on a farm or business only during certain times of the year.

Power Down for Energy Conservation

One way you can actively participate in our efforts to reduce demand on the regional grid is to sign up for Power Down. This program will notify you when PEC is asking members to voluntarily reduce their electricity usage during periods of high demand. Visit peoplesenergy.coop/power-down.