H2O Plus

EREC rolls out program to promote wiser energy use

Homeowners interested in ways to make a difference in energy costs have a new tool at their disposal. Known as H2O Plus, the program is the latest innovative service from EREC.

When a member enrolls in the program, EREC sends a certified electrician to his or her home (at no cost to the member) to install a cycling device on their water heater. The cooperative’s power supplier can then send a signal that instructs the device to cycle the water heater during times of peak energy demand, usually between 5 a.m. and 8 a.m.

When the water heater cycles, the elements will power down for a short period of time – usually between two and four hours – and restart in time to maintain plenty of hot water in the tank. The cycling process reduces the amount of power needed for the overall system’s peak demand.

The program is designed to encourage wiser energy use during peak demand times, increasing the efficiency and reliability of EREC’s power system.

“There are two things our members need to understand about the H2O Plus program,” says Clay Campbell, EREC’s General Manager/CEO. “First, members should not notice a difference in the amount of hot water available to do normal household tasks. And second, participation in this program can help us all become wiser energy users and reduce the amount of demand on our system.”

The cycling process will go virtually unnoticed by participants. There will be plenty of hot water in their tank for showers, chores and other household tasks.

Members who enroll in the H2O Plus program should not expect to see a reduction in their monthly power bills. The true benefit comes when you consider the impact of thousands of homeowners joining forces to better manage the region’s energy demands by reducing the amount of power needed during the hours of peak use.

To learn more or to enroll in H2O Plus, call us at 850.675.4521 or 1.800.692.7010.