Load Control Programs

Partner for Efficiency

Maximize your savings and help keep cooperative rates stable by enrolling your major appliances in our Load Control programs. This is a simple, effective way to turn your existing equipment into a source of savings and system resilience.

Load control is a voluntary partnership where Capital Electric can temporarily adjust the operation of high-use appliances (like your AC and water heater) during periods of high electric demand, known as peak times. By reducing our total peak demand, the Cooperative avoids high wholesale power costs, and we pass those savings directly on to you in the form of bill credits.

 

How Load Control Works

During a few crucial hours each month, the cost of purchasing wholesale electricity spikes dramatically. By temporarily controlling a portion of the electric load from participating members, Capital Electric reduces the overall demand, which in turn saves money for the entire membership.

We install a small control device on your qualified appliance. When a system peak is anticipated, the device receives a signal from the Cooperative to briefly cycle or shut off the unit. This typically lasts for a short period and is designed to minimize any impact on your comfort.

Please Note: There will be a $3 load controller charge on your bill each month for participating.

Air Conditioning & Heat Pump Load Control

This program is designed to manage the heavy electric load created by cooling and heating systems during summer and winter peaks.

EligibilityMembers with Central Air Conditioning, Air Source Heat Pumps, or Geothermal Heat Pumps.
How it WorksInstead of fully shutting off your unit, the control device cycles your compressor on and off frequently. This keeps your home cool by distributing the "load" of all participating members' units across the peak event, ensuring not all air conditioners are running at full power simultaneously.
Benefit to YouReceive a monthly credit on your bill during the control season (typically summer).
Impact on ComfortMinimal. Your fan may continue to run, and the short cycle periods are designed to retain the cool temperature inside your home, resulting in little to no noticeable change.

Electric Water Heater Load Control

Water heating is one of the largest and most flexible loads in a typical home.

EligibilityMembers with an electric storage tank water heater.
How it WorksThe control device is connected by an electrician to your water heater. During a peak event, the device temporarily shuts off the unit's ability to heat water. Because electric water heaters are well-insulated, the hot water already in the tank remains hot for hours.
Benefit to YouReceive a monthly credit on your bill year-round.
InstallationCapital Electric provides the load control device, but you must arrange for a licensed electrician to install it.
Impact on ComfortMinimal. You will likely have plenty of hot water for normal use, even during the control event.

Ready to Enroll?

Joining is simple! Our Energy Services team can answer your questions, confirm your equipment's eligibility, and provide the necessary load control device.

Contact us today:

Phone: 855-937-1736

Ask for: Josh, Jared, or NaTesa in Energy Services.