Watt Watchers is a new program offered to members of South River EMC.

Meant to keep rates low for members, participation involves shifting energy use from times of high use. Called a peak, these are the few critical hours when the most people are using the most electricity, all at the same time.

This is typically when electricity is priced at its highest, and while it does not impact you at that time you use the electricity, it affects the rates offered by the Cooperative.

By participating in Watt Watchers, you agree to shift energy use to off-peak times, which you will be notified of in advance. In doing this, you help to reduce demand costs.

You will only be expected to change habits for an event.

Now, if you are interested in saving money and you might consider switching and saving.

The Switch and Save program is a rate, which outlines specific times at which you should not use energy, and if you do, the cost per kilowatt hour is higher.

Every household is different and every member has to decide what works for their unique situation.

Generally, time-of-use rates work best for people who are gone during the day and are flexible with when they use the most energy.

This rate is generally not suited for retirees or families who have someone home all day. The super off-peak time is perfect for electric-vehicle charging.