Due to the successful operation of its Smart Select load management program this past summer, Flint Energies has assigned $344,425 as $25 bill credits to 13,777 of its current members. Members received their bill credit as a separate line item on their October bills.

“Participating members get $25 each fall when the program saves energy and dollars for their non-profit member-owned cooperative,” said Sr. VP Jimmy Autry.

Smart Select is a voluntary program designed to reduce peak electric demand during the hottest summer afternoons when air conditioners are used the most. These switches reduce peak use and save Flint Energies from purchasing additional power during the summer months when costs are at their highest.

Members who participate in Smart Select allow the cooperative to attach a load control switch to their central AC/heat pump and electric water heater and or pool pump, at no cost. The switch allows Flint to safely cycle the air conditioner off for brief periods on peak usage days. Members report noticing little to no difference inside their homes because the fan continues to run and circulate cooled air.

By reducing peak demand, Smart Select members are helping the environment by reducing the consumption of gas, coal and oil fuels used to generate electricity. This reduces the need to build new power plants. In addition, Smart Select participants are ensuring system reliability by reducing the chance of blackouts.

“By participating in this volunteer program, residential members will save themselves and Flint Energies money on future power purchases,” Autry said. “Over 18,000 load control switches have been installed; however, Flint still needs more volunteers. The more participation the cooperative achieves, the more money saved…which keeps bills lower for all members.”