Electric co-ops advise members to wait ‘til eight to save on summer energy bills

BRAHAM, Minn. - Six Minnesota electric cooperatives will again conduct a joint consumer education campaign this summer to help members save money on energy bills. The program called Wait ‘til 8 is cosponsored by Arrowhead Electric Cooperative, Cooperative Light & Power, Crow Wing Power, East Central Energy, Lake Country Power and Mille Lacs Electric Cooperative.

Peak electricity demand on hot summer days has been increasing dramatically in recent years. As summer demand surges upward, power production and delivery costs go up. This is because more expensive power plants have to run to meet the peaks, higher loading increases line losses and eventually generators, lines and substations have to be built or upgraded to keep up with demand.

To promote wise energy use and reduce the economic impacts of summer demand spikes, participating cooperatives will broadcast Wait ‘til 8 advisories on the radio. To save money during these peak demand periods, co-op members should reduce energy use as much as possible and wait until 8 p.m. or later to use major appliances.

It is important to remember that Wait ‘til 8 advisories are not issued for emergency power shortages. If utilities ever need consumers to immediately reduce electric use to avoid a blackout, alerts will be issued that clearly indicate the emergency nature of the situation.

Wait ‘til 8 Money Saving Tips

• Purchase energy-efficient ENERGY STAR® appliances for your home, farm or business. Check with your local cooperative to see whether rebates are offered.
• Sign up for money-saving energy management programs offered by your cooperative.
• If you do not participate in a special air conditioning program, set your air conditioner to 78 degrees or higher when a Wait ‘til 8 advisory is in effect.
• Delay running the dishwasher.
• Delay washing clothes until after 8 p.m.
• Choose meals that don't contribute additional heat to the home.
• Turn off excess lights and draw curtains and draperies closed.