Frequently asked questions
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You can enjoy the value, reliability and convenience of electricity by installing off-peak-qualified technologies in your new or existing home.
Electricity consumers in the Minnkota Power Cooperative system voluntarily sign up for the program, which allows Minnkota to temporarily turn off electric heating, water heating, vehicle chargers and commercial account service. During these “control periods,” most consumers are automatically switched to a backup heating system or generator.
Experience value, reliability and convenience in your new or existing home on the off-peak (demand response) program.
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Electricity consumers in the Minnkota Power Cooperative system voluntarily sign up for the program, which allows Minnkota to temporarily turn off electric heating, water heating, vehicle chargers and commercial account service. During these “control periods,” most consumers are automatically switched to a backup heating system or generator.
Power system operators use computers to send electronic signals through Minnkota’s power delivery system and into your cooperative or municipal utility’s distribution power lines. Receivers plugged into standard electrical current at consumer homes and businesses can read the signals, and when the appropriate message is sent, the receivers interrupt the electric power flowing to a water heater, electric heating system or other controlled load. When control is no longer needed, a signal is sent to turn the electric system back on.
The off-peak program offers a lower electric rate that is about 40-50% below the regular service rate – all for helping your utility lower demand on the system when it’s highest. For home heating, this makes electricity one of the most stable and cost-effective energy sources available. With the off-peak rate, electricity is very competitive with other heating fuels such as propane or fuel oil. And the off-peak rate really looks good during times when fossil fuel prices rise dramatically.
Yes. A home with an existing fossil fuel heating system can be converted to off-peak electric heating very easily. Qualified personnel from your cooperative or municipal will be happy to advise you on the best electric alternative to meet your specific needs.
By temporarily controlling off-peak heating systems, your cooperative or municipal avoids the need to build a new fossil fuel power plant just to meet peak electricity demand. With more than 55,000 consumers participating, the off-peak program is one of the largest energy efficiency efforts in the region.
