BGE, Pepco Offer Credit for Reducing Energy Use on Friday

BGE and Pepco customers who use less power on Friday, July 8, can earn a credit on their monthly bill.

That's because it's one of a handful of dates the companies select to encourage people to reduce their consumption, when the demand for electricity is expected to be high.

BGE anticipates that there will be up to 1o Energy Savings Days during summer 2016.

Residential BGE customers with smart meters can earn bill credits by reducing their electric use from 1 to 7 p.m. during the Energy Savings Day on Friday, July 8. For Pepco customers, the Peak Energy Savings Credit window is from 1 to 5 p.m. on Friday, July 8.

Here are some tips from BGE and Pepco:

• Before 1 p.m., lower the temperature to make it cool off. Then between 1 and 7 p.m., raise the thermostat 3 or 4 degrees above normal.
• Unplug electronics like DVD players, computers, phone chargers, etc.
• Do household chores like laundry or dishes after 7 p.m.
• Close blinds or drapes on sunny sides of the house.
• Minimize use of dryers, stoves, ovens and other appliances that generate heat.
• Use a fan instead of an air conditioner.
• Ensure ducts and fans are clear so air can circulate freely.
• Consider turning some window units off, if you have them.

Customers in 2015 saved an average of $5 to $8 on their bills from participating in an Energy Savings Day, according to BGE. For each kilowatt hour a person reduces energy compared with their baseline use, Pepco says they will earn $1.25 off their bill.

People will be able to see how much they saved by checking their account within a few days after the event.

Photo Credit: Morguefile