What is Electric Demand?

What is Electric Demand?

Demand (listed on your bill as “Billed Dmd Rd”) is the highest rate of electricity you demand from our electric system (in 15-minute intervals), not your total usage (kWh).

Why show it now?

Peak demand affects CVE’s wholesale power costs. If you lower your monthly peak demand, it can help lower the co-op’s power costs for all members.

Watch your peak demand month-to-month.

Lower peaks = Happier bills for all!

Example: A Tale of 2 Neighbors

Both neighbors use identical appliances and consume the same total energy, yet their bills look completely different. 

Neighbor A (Smart Staggering, Low Demand)

2 PM- Runs dishwasher

4 PM- Does laundry 

6 PM- Cooks dinner

Result: Low peak demand on the grid, lower electric bill.

Neighbor B  (Simultaneous Rush, High Demand)

6 PM- Runs dishwasher

6 PM- Does laundry

6 PM- Cooks dinner

Result: High peak demand, triggering high demand charges on electric bill.