As a member of South River EMC, you know how to make smart energy choices that help you save money. But did you know that when you use electricity can be just as important as how much you use?

Throughout the day, energy use fluctuates based on consumer demand. Typically, most households use larger amounts of electricity in the morning when most people are getting ready for their day, and in the evenings when they return from work, cook dinner, wash clothes and watch television.

These times when people in our community are using more electricity at the same time are called “peak” hours. The cost for South River EMC to provide power is higher during these times because of the additional demand for electricity. Summer on-peak time (April 16- October 15) is 2-6 p.m. Meanwhile, winter on-peak time (October 16-April 15) is 6-9 a.m.

By shifting some of your energy use to hours when demand is lower, also known as off-peak hours, you can help keep rates lower for the community.

Here are a few easy ways you can shift energy use to off-peak hours:

• Adjust your thermostat. During summer months, raise the thermostat a few degrees during peak hours.
• Wash full loads of clothes in cold water during off-peak hours.
• Run the dishwasher right before you go to bed, or air-dry dishes by opening the dishwasher instead of using the heated dry cycle.
• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. (Try to make this a daily habit, whether during peak or off-peak hours.)