Energy Wise 101
Energy Wise—sometimes called off-peak, load management, or peak shave—is MVEC’s set of programs designed to save you money and reduce electricity use during times of high demand. These programs help MVEC manage power more efficiently while lowering your energy costs. Savings vary depending on program type. Members can save with bill credits or up to 50% off electric rates.
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How does Energy Wise work?
Load management typically means cycling certain appliances on and off for short periods during times of high electricity demand. Most participants say they enjoy the savings and hardly notice any difference in comfort, whether heating or cooling their home.
MVEC provides a Load Management Receiver, which the co-op can use like a remote-control switch. It allows MVEC to cycle your enrolled equipment only when needed.
Why It Matters
Peak electricity hours occur when overall demand is highest — and when wholesale power is most expensive. By shifting usage away from those peak times, MVEC reduces the amount of power we need to purchase. In return, members benefit through a 10% bill credit or half-price electric rates on enrolled products.
When Load Management Happens
There’s no set schedule for off-peak control. Each morning, MVEC reviews system needs and decides if load management will be needed, which programs will be controlled, and for how long.
Load management times are posted online, or you can sign up for email notification.
Energy Wise program differences
Unmetered programs: In exchange for a bill credit or discount, you agree to let MVEC control enrolled units during periods of high electricity demand, usually from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. You can enroll for free online. Products and benefits:
- Wi-Fi Thermostat – receive a 10% discount on your electric bill from June through September.
Wi-Fi Thermostats are automatically lowered by a few degrees during load management periods; pre-cooling your home in the morning is recommended. - Cycled Air Conditioning – receive a 10% discount on your electric bill from June through September.
MVEC installs an energy management switch (free of charge). Air conditioning units are cycled on and off every 15 minutes during load management periods. - Electric Water Heating Program –save $7 per month ($84 annually). This program is year-round.
MVEC installs an energy management switch (free of charge). The water heater is controlled only during peak electricity usage times through this switch.
Metered programs: You hire an electrician to physically install qualifying products to a dedicated electric meter on your home with MVEC metering equipment. Metered programs qualify for Energy Wise electric rates, which are approximately 50% less than General Service rates.
Steps for metered program installation:
1. Work with your electrician. Share MVEC’s wiring diagrams with your contractor to plan the job.
Need help finding a contractor? Email MVEC with your project details, and we’ll connect you with referrals.
2. Get MVEC parts. After talking with your electrician, contact MVEC for the parts they recommend. Choose one of two options:
- Free shipping to your home
- Pickup at the MVEC office (ready the next business day after confirmation)
3. Complete the installation. Your electrician completes the work and the electrical inspection must be approved.
4. Schedule your meter installation. Call 952-492-2313 to set up the off-peak meter installation (free of charge).
If the required steps aren’t complete, a trip charge will apply.
5. Start saving. MVEC installs the off-peak meter, and your equipment is officially enrolled in the Energy Wise program. Your discounted rate will now show on your account.
6. Apply for rebates. Once enrolled, complete the rebate form for any eligible product.
Energy Wise Wiring Diagrams
Our Wiring Diagram document includes information on Energy Wise controllable loads, an equipment list, and installation specifications.
Diagrams are for general purposes only and are not intended to serve as a set of specifications for the installation of equipment. MVEC is not responsible for installations of equipment that it has not specifically approved. All wiring must be completed by the owner or an electrician and must be inspected by a local or state electrical inspector before MVEC can make an appointment to install the meter. Please contact MVEC or your electrical contractor for further information. Please follow the manufacturer’s recommendation when controlling this unit with a saver switch.
Questions?
Call: (952)492-8330
Important Notes about Breakers and Battery Storage
- Be sure to always keep your breaker power on for any items connected to an Energy Wise program. Failure to do so can result in the loss of your 50% Energy Wise savings. Turning off the breaker could result in being charged additional fees.
- Battery storage programs are not compatible with enrollment in Energy Wise programs. If battery storage is installed with the system, the member will no longer qualify for Energy Wise Programs offered through MVEC. More solar information
- Once you are ready for your Energy Wise meter, please call (952) 492-2313 or (800) 282-6832 to schedule the installation. Your Energy Wise savings do not start until that process is complete.