Working together to reduce energy use and cost

Reducing energy use in your home saves you money, increases our energy security, and reduces the pollution that is emitted from non-renewable sources of energy. We use electricity almost every minute of every day, yet few of us understand the major uses of electricity in our homes. By working with Wake Electric, you can target these major uses and adopt new energy efficient habits and programs to lower your electric bill. But first, you must start by understanding how electricity is being used in your home. See the “How Americans Use Electricity” chart for reference.

Working with your co-op to manage your energy usage

Wake Electric works on your behalf to adopt newer technologies that help members better manage their electricity. Thanks to advanced meter technology, members can access their monthly electricity use and previous history online through SmartHub. These advanced meters can target energy use down to the hour, empowering members with information to better manage their usage.

In addition, to help reduce our peak power demands and save everyone money, Wake Electric offers special time-based rates that encourage members to use electricity during off-peak hours. The programs pass on the savings to you through reduced electricity rates. Our advanced meters allow members to join a rate like “Time of Use” or “Electric Vehicle” that reward you for shifting your power use to off-peak times. Time-based rates are very attractive to owners of plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles since typically these vehicles are recharged at night. These programs can save you money while helping Wake Electric lower their overall cost to purchase power.

If you would like to learn more about these rates, click here.

How Americans use electricity. The latest data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration shows the combined use of clothes washers and dryers, computers, dishwashers, small appliances and othe electrical equipment (noted at all other uses below) accounts for nearly 40% of electrical consumption in American homes.
By understanding how electricity is being used in your home, you can prioritize opportunities to reduce it. For example, this chart shows that TVs and related equipment has limited potential for impacting your energy bill, whereas finding more energy efficient ways to heat and cool your home will have greater potential to lower your electric bill and reduce carbon emissions.