When we have a heat wave of three or more days in a row air conditioners are running non-stop and electricity demand often reaches its peak during these times. These also tend to be the days when smog is an issue as well when it becomes more likely that more coal, oil and gas-fired plants will be used to meet the electricity demand. These plants, located in Ontario, release greenhouse gases and other harmful pollutants that add further to Ontario's air pollution and smog. That's why Peaksaver® was introduced; it plays a critical role by cycling down air conditioners and reducing electricity consumption during the peak.
Peaksaver® sends a signal to your home's central air conditioner (CAC) that will cycle it down for short periods of time, which may increase your home's temperature by only 1°or 2° C. These adjustments will only occur during weekdays, never on weekends or holidays, and most likely between 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.
How Can You Enroll?
To join Peaksaver®, simply contact your participating local electric utility. Once you are enrolled in Peaksaver® and the device (either a thermostat or switch) is installed at your home, it can be remotely activated by your participating electric utility to slightly reduce your CAC's electricity demand automatically.
Activations would only occur:
- On those occasional hot and humid summer days when the electricity system can be stretched to its limit and electricity consumption is at its highest. When activated, your CAC will continue to cool your home. However, in half-hour intervals, your CAC will be adjusted on and off. For the first 15 minutes, it will continue to produce cool air. And for the second 15 minutes, the fan will continue to run to circulate the cool air in your home.
- On weekdays (Monday through Friday) from May 1 to September 30.
- For a maximum of 10 activations during the summer and only for a total of four hours during any one activation. In 2010, Peaksaver® was activated only three times (May 26, July 6, August 30).
- Your system's fan will continue to operate so that they will only be a 1° or 2° change in temperature
- You can always opt out in advance of a specified date by contacting your participating electric utility.
- Most participants note that they do not even feel a change in the temperature of their home.
Note: Peaksaver® is available in limited areas of the province. For further information please contact your local electric utility.
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