Since DemandLevel launched in November, we’ve heard questions about how the new pricing structure works and what it means for customers. Below, we walk through details to help clarify what’s changed and why.
Myth: I’m too busy to change my routine to reduce demand.
Fact: Reducing demand doesn’t mean changing your lifestyle. Small adjustments can make a difference. An easy way to lower demand is by spreading out or staggering your energy use, such as running the dishwasher or clothes dryer at different times. Smart thermostats, appliance timers and other tools can help do the work for you.
Start with one simple change. As you learn more about your energy use, you may discover new opportunities to save.
Myth: Why change anything at all? Things seemed to be working fine.
Fact: Utilities must plan for both the total amount of energy customers use and the highest demand on the system at any given moment. Peak periods, such as early evenings when many customers are using electricity at the same time, require OUC to maintain enough capacity to meet those spikes. By helping reduce peak demand, OUC can maintain reliability, keep costs lower and delay the need for additional infrastructure.
Myth: I’m just one person. My actions don’t matter in reducing demand.
Fact: Every action matters. When thousands of customers make small changes, those efforts add up, helping reduce strain on the grid and support reliability. Together, customers can make a meaningful difference in managing demand and keeping the electric system operating efficiently.
Myth: DemandLevel is going to significantly increase my bill.
Fact: OUC studies show about 50% of residential customers will see their bills decrease or stay about the same under DemandLevel. To help offset the new DemandLevel charge, OUC also reduced the non-fuel energy rate by 12.5% per kilowatt-hour. Plus, customers now have more control over their energy costs by managing when and how they use electricity.
Myth: This is just a way for OUC to make more money.
Fact: DemandLevel is designed to be revenue-neutral, meaning OUC does not collect additional revenue. As a municipally owned utility, OUC doesn’t distribute profits to shareholders. Instead, rates are set to recover the cost of providing reliable service to customers.
OUC’s average residential electric rates remain below the state and national averages, and lower than many utilities. When market conditions allow, OUC also lowers rates, as demonstrated by the approved fuel rate decrease announced in December.
You don’t have to manage demand on your own. OUC offers resources to help, including:
For more demand-saving tips and information about DemandLevel, visit OUC.com/demand.
