Efficient Use of Power
  We are now looking at how to efficiently balance the load between the amount of energy that the panels create and the rate in which PGE will credit us for this energy. We will receive the highest credit rate from PGE between noon and 6 PM. This is because the Utility meter tracts "time of usage." 

This way we can take advantage of PGE rates being lower from 6 PM to noon, which is the time we consume most of our power. From noon to 6 PM the rates are higher and this is the time we generate the most energy.

We will change the time of day that we use large appliances (hot tub, clothes washer, dishwasher) so that they run in the morning before noon. PGE will send us a yearly statement.

       

What else you can do to use Power Efficiently
 
  • Compact florescent lighting
  • florescent lighting
  • turn off computers
  • check for appliances (devices) that consume power in the "off" position, use switched powerstrips to stop Phantom power. 
    • Computer
    • Printer
    • TV
    • VCR
    • Microwave oven
   Phantom power is current that is being consumed by the appliance when it is in an "off" position. This phantom power is used for remote control functions or clocks.

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