Santee Cooper Encourages Energy Conservation During Heat Wave
Customers can help manage their power bills by utilizing no-cost and low-cost energy-saving tips.
MONCKS CORNER, S.C. – As the heat wave continues in South Carolina, Santee Cooper is encouraging residents and businesses to employ energy-saving measures that can help them manage their bills. By utilizing no-cost and low-cost energy saving tips, customers also help reduce strain on the power grid during periods of high demand.
“We’re expecting highs in the 90s, with heat indexes in the 100s, again this week. As outdoor temperatures rise, customers’ cooling equipment uses more energy to maintain the same indoor temperature, which can cause bills to rise and increases demand on the electric system,” said Vicky Budreau, Chief Customer Officer. “By making small changes in their habits, customers can manage how much energy they’re using, which can have a positive effect on their bills.”
In addition to the energy-saving tips below, residential customers can earn bill credits and help Santee Cooper during times of peak energy use by enrolling in SmartRewards. This demand-response program enables Santee Cooper to partner with customers to help maintain system reliability during periods of high demand, manage electricity costs, and reduce carbon emissions.
SmartRewards is a free, voluntary program that offers customers bill credits of up to $100 the first year they participate and up to $50 annual bill credits for each additional year. To learn more about the SmartRewards program, residential customers can visit SCSmartRewards.com.
To save energy and help manage power usage, Santee Cooper recommends the following energy-saving practices:
- Adjust Thermostats: Raise the temperature on thermostats by a few degrees to minimize the load on air conditioning systems. Santee Cooper recommends setting your thermostat at 78 degrees in the summer. Use fans to maintain comfort.
- Optimize Appliance Use: Limit the use of energy-intensive appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers to off-peak hours (between 7 p.m. and 1 p.m.). Consider using the microwave or outdoor grill for cooking. Unplug electronics and appliances when not in use to prevent energy wastage.
- Efficient Lighting: Switch to energy-efficient LEDs, which consume significantly less electricity and generate less heat. Additionally, turn off lights when leaving a room to conserve energy.
- Insulate and Seal: Ensure proper insulation of windows, doors, and ductwork to prevent cool air from escaping and hot air from entering. This will help maintain a comfortable indoor environment and reduce the need for excessive cooling.
- Reduce Water Consumption: Minimize the use of hot water by taking shorter showers and fixing leaks promptly. Set your hot water heater to 120 degrees.
- Shield the Sun: Close blinds and curtains during the day to shield the sun’s rays from heating the inside of homes and businesses.
For more energy-saving tips, visit Santee Cooper’s website and follow Santee Cooper on Facebook and Twitter.
