Manager Connection: Summer Energy Consumption

General Manager Syd Briggs

When we experience the heat of summer, our electric bills tend to increase as air conditioners work overtime, driving up home energy consumption.

Steele-Waseca Cooperative Electric is your local not-for-profit electricity provider, and we are committed to helping you beat the heat without breaking the bank.

As we experience those hot and humid stretches of weather, we want to make sure you keep in mind about a range of energy-saving offerings designed specifically with you in mind. By taking advantage of these programs and services, you can manage your summer energy consumption and costs.

Budget Billing

When you sign up for budget billing, your energy bill is calculated by averaging your previous 12 months of use. Steele-Waseca requires that you have at least 12 months of usage at your service location in order to participate.

With budget billing, your monthly energy costs are easier to budget and manage, especially during the seasonal fluctuations when bills tend to increase based on the weather.

Budget billing is a great option for anyone on a fixed income or those with highly variable seasonal needs.

Rebate Program

When you make upgrades or purchases to reduce home energy use, those smart decisions should be rewarded. Steele-Waseca offers rebates on all ENERGY STAR refrigerators/freezers (with recycling), electric clothes dryers, dehumidifiers, central air conditioners, air and ground source heat pumps, light emitting diode (LED) bulbs purchased (limit 5) are eligible to receive rebates (may not be combined with special promotions). Rebate request forms must be submitted within 90 days of purchase. Rebate forms are available at www.swce.coop. For more information or to receive a rebate request form, email rebates@swce.coop or call 507-451-7340 or 800-526-3514.

You Have the Power

Small actions combined can have a big impact on summer energy bills.

The best way to lower energy use during summer months is to raise the thermostat to the highest setting that’s comfortable. Ceiling fans can also help you feel cooler, but remember to turn them off when you leave the room.

On warm summer nights, fire up the grill to keep additional heat out of the kitchen.

Remember to change air filters often so your cooling system doesn’t have to work harder than necessary.

Don’t let energy bills take a toll on your summer fun. Steele-Waseca is here to help manage your energy use through efficiency programs and services. We also have a couple of Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives publications in our lobby for you take and keep as a reference in utilizing energy-saving strategies. The publications are entitled, “101 Easy Ways to Save Energy and Money,” and “Home Energy Savings Guide,” a resource for operating your home efficiently.

Contact us to learn more about practical strategies to lower your use, trim your bills and make the remaining weeks of this summer a breeze for both you and your wallet.

Innovation

#swceINNOVATION