CHELCO members made a powerful impact in 2025. Through a combination of cooperative load control strategies and member participation, CHELCO successfully saved $2.8 million in power costs—helping keep electric rates affordable for our members.
Electric demand fluctuates throughout the day, and during periods of high use—known as “peak” times—the cost to purchase power can rise significantly. To manage these costs, CHELCO uses several proven strategies designed to reduce demand during critical periods without disrupting reliable service.
One of those tools is voltage reduction, which slightly lowers system voltage during peak events. This approach helps reduce overall demand while remaining within safe operating standards for homes and businesses.
The co-op also works closely with key commercial and industrial accounts that can temporarily operate on-site generators during peak events. Along with our industrial members who operate on-site generators, CHELCO also runs backup generators at our headquarters campus. These efforts play an important role in reducing strain on the electric system.
CHELCO’s Switch to Save water heater load control program is also a major contributor in savings. Participating members allow the co-op to briefly cycle their electric water heaters off during peak periods. These short, often unnoticed interruptions make a meaningful difference when thousands of devices are working together.
Most importantly, members across our service territory stepped up by voluntarily reducing high-energy activities during peak alerts. Simple actions—like adjusting thermostats a few degrees, delaying large appliance and hot water use—collectively have a significant impact.
These efforts reflect the true power of the cooperative difference. When CHELCO and its members work together, everyone benefits.
By continuing these programs and building even greater participation, CHELCO can further strengthen system reliability, manage wholesale power costs, and protect the long-term value of the cooperative for all members.
