Be Alert for Peak Alerts

The Cooperative’s future price it must pay for electric generation has a component based on how much we consumed during summer peak demand periods. Northwestern REC began the Peak Alert program to help reduce energy purchased during these high demand times.

What exactly is a Peak Alert?

A Peak Alert is a text and/or e-mail notifications to inform Cooperative members of a predicted period of high demand for electricity. Participating members are asked to voluntarily cut back energy usage. It does not mean there is a shortage of electricity.

When do they usually occur?

The alerts will occur in the summer months from June to September. Typically they occur between 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. on hot summer days (M – F).

What do I do during a Peak Alert?

You can reduce electric use by turning off air conditioners, dehumidifiers, pool filters, clothes dryers and any other unnecessary appliances. By 6 p.m. the peak will pass and you can go back to your normal use.

How do I sign up?

You must first have a SmartHub account. Once you login to your SmartHub account from a computer (not a smart device), you can click on the "notifications" tab and sign up for as many notifications as you'd like. If you need assistance, you can call the Member Services department at 1-800-352-0014, M - F, 7 a.m. - 3:30 p.m