How SCE’s Demand Response Programs Can Reduce Your Energy Bill
How SCE’s Demand Response Programs Can Reduce Your Energy Bill
View Demand Response Video
Like any other service or commodity, electricity is governed by the laws of supply and demand. When energy supplies are plentiful, the cost of electricity drops. When many customers wrap up their work day and begin energy-reliant chores, such as doing laundry or using the dishwasher, the demand for electricity rises along with the cost of using it.
Thankfully, Southern California Edison customers have the benefit of Demand Response programs. These enrollment-free programs provide financial incentives for reducing electricity use when demand is high. This voluntary reduction helps to balance the demands on the power grid by conserving energy supplies and ensuring that SCE can meet the rising demand during the peak hours of energy use from 4-9 p.m.
Because every customer is unique, SCE provides various Demand Response programs with customizable options to fit their individual energy needs. These programs are quick and easy to enroll in and allow you to select how and when you’d like to receive notifications when a Demand Response event is called to ensure that you can take full advantage of each program’s incentives.
Here’s more information:
- Smart Energy Program – This event-based program offers bill credits to eligible customers who own a smart thermostat and enroll through one of our authorized service providers. When a Demand Response event is called, your thermostat may be automatically adjusted to limit A/C usage temporarily. In exchange, you may qualify for a one-time $75 sign-up bonus, plus up to $40 annually. You can override events at any time, but this may impact your credits and continued participation in the program.
- Summer Discount Plan – This program allows SCE to cycle off customers’ air conditioners while offering the opportunity to earn bill credits on summer bills in return. When you sign up, an SCE-approved contractor will install a remote-controlled device on or near your A/C unit at no cost to you. You can also opt for override control, allowing you to opt out of events. You will also maintain the ability to update your preferences annually.
- Power Saver Rewards Program – When you enroll in this program, you’ll be rewarded for voluntarily reducing your energy use when the electricity grid is stressed. You will earn $2 for each kilowatt-hour of energy you save. The more you save, the more you earn. Power Saver Rewards events can occur any time from 4-9 p.m. on hot summer days between May 1 and Oct. 31.
For more information on Demand Response programs, watch this short explainer video highlighting the benefits they bring to customers and the electrical grid.