Some people are meant for true summer weather. The humid, hot and sun-filled days are something they dream of year round. Others, not so much. Whether loved or not, extreme temperatures can result in lowering the air conditioner’s temperature setting or spending more time indoors. This causes energy use to significantly rise – and not just in your home.

As several homes resort to cooling activities, the increased energy demand can put pressure on the power grid. If this strain becomes too great, emergent actions may become necessary. To help ease grid strain, Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) may issue a “Peak Energy Event” alert to customers who voluntarily participate in our Power Rewards programs. These events often happen during the 4-6 p.m. hours, or as many return home from work or other activities. Customers who voluntarily opt into this program will be asked to reduce energy use during the designated time.

See also: What are ‘Peak Hours?’

But all customers can help during the need for demand response. These voluntary actions to balance the demand on the power grid require reducing or shifting energy away from peak hours, including:

• Don’t add to the heat. Avoid running the dryer or using the oven during peak hours. Instead, use smaller appliance for dinner prep, like an air fryer or slow cooker, which use less energy and hang clothes to dry – or postpone laundry altogether.
• Keep cool with less energy. During peak hours, customers are encouraged to raise the thermostat setting to as high a temperature where you can still be comfortable. Add extra layers of comfort by turning on a ceiling fan, rotating counterclockwise, and closing blinds and drapes to keep the sun’s rays out.
• Small adjustments are impactful. Don’t skip the small things, such as turning lights off when leaving a room or unplugging appliances and other electronics that are not in use during this time.
• Delay household chores for the night. Several common household chores use a lot of energy. During peak hours, consider adjusting the time you do laundry, run the dishwasher, charge your EV or run pool accessories. Consider doing these tasks later in the evening when energy demand is lower, and temperatures have cooled.

If a Peak Energy Event is called, I&M provides communication on multiple platforms to alert customers of these extreme conditions. While taking action is not required, every little bit helps to protect our power grid and provide comfort to customers where it is needed most – at home.

Customers can earn bill credits when they voluntarily sign up for our Power Rewards and participate during a Peak Energy Event. Visit the Power Rewards website and take the quiz to select the program that matches your home’s energy needs – all at no cost. Additionally, homeowners have the choice of how often and how long they participate in each event.

For more information on Power Rewards Programs and additional energy-saving tips, visit www.ElectricIdeas.com.