Load Management Program - Electric Heating Systems

Geographic Scope: CEC service territory in Western Pennsylvania (Allegheny, Armstrong, Butler, Clarion, Forest, Mercer, and Venango counties)

Program Type: Demand response/energy management program with reduced rate structure

Purpose

Allows members with electric heating systems to participate in demand response by shifting heating/cooling usage to off-peak hours in exchange for reduced electricity rates. Helps stabilize rates for all cooperative members and reduces environmental impact.

How It Works

• Members install a second distribution panel and service entrance for separate metering
• Heating/cooling system and electric water heater controlled by CEC during peak periods
• Electric clothes dryer can optionally be included
• Second meter receives reduced rates for controlled energy usage
• Load control periods vary by season:
  • Winter: Typically 7 a.m. - 1 p.m. (morning) and/or 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. (evening)
  • Summer: Typically 1 p.m. - 7 p.m.
  • Common on weekdays, not weekends or major holidays
  • Can extend up to 12 hours in a 24-hour period

Benefit

• Reduced Rates: Lower electricity rates for energy on second meter

Requirements to Participate

1. Use electric heat as primary heating source
2. Install second distribution panel and service entrance for separate metering
3. Allow heating/cooling system and electric water heater to be interrupted during peaks (optional: clothes dryer)
4. MANDATORY: Have an adequate back-up heating system in place (electric thermal storage recommended)

Back-up Heating Requirement

• Critical: Members CANNOT participate in Load Management for electric heat without an adequate back-up heating system

Contact Information

• Phone: 800-521-0570
• Email: clong@central.coop
• Address: P.O. Box 329, Parker, PA 16049

How to Apply

1. Initial Contact: Call 800-521-0570 for more information
2. Assess Back-up Heating: Ensure you have adequate back-up heating system in place (electric thermal storage recommended)
3. Installation Planning: Plan for installation of second distribution panel and service entrance
4. Schedule: Contact CEC to schedule implementation
5. Receive Reduced Rates: Once installed, receive reduced rates for controlled electric heating/cooling usage

Optional: Load Control Notifications

• Current participants can request email notifications of predicted load control periods
• Request by calling 800-521-0570 or emailing clong@central.coop