Summerside Launches “Beat the Peak” Campaign to Reduce Winter Power Strain

The City of Summerside has initiated a public awareness campaign aimed at reducing electricity consumption during peak hours throughout the coldest winter months. The “Beat the Peak” initiative, which runs until March 2024, seeks to inform residents about high-demand periods and their impact on the local power grid.

Greg Gaudet, the city’s director of municipal services, highlighted that electricity use peaks on weekdays between 6 to 9 a.m. and 4 to 8 p.m.. During these times, many households simultaneously rely on heating, hot water, and various appliances. Gaudet emphasized the importance of community participation, stating, “We would really like for people to be mindful of when those demand times [for] electricity are and maybe do their part.”

Addressing Winter Demand Challenges

As temperatures drop, the demand for heating increases, placing significant pressure on the power grid of Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.). Maritime Electric has warned that rolling outages may be necessary. Consequently, Summerside Electric is preparing for potential power curtailments.

The city’s electrical utility generates approximately 60 percent of its electricity from renewable sources, including solar and wind. However, it also relies on Maritime Electric’s transmission system for additional power purchased from New Brunswick Power. This dual dependency underlines the critical nature of managing electricity consumption, especially during peak demand periods.

Residents who engage with the “Beat the Peak” campaign can help alleviate strain on the grid while also benefiting from reduced electricity bills. Gaudet noted that residential buildings account for the highest electricity demand, particularly for heating and cooking.

Small Changes, Big Impact

While participation in the campaign is voluntary, Gaudet reassured residents that even minor adjustments in their electricity usage can make a significant difference. He stated, “We don’t by any means expect people to be inconvenienced by their efforts. It’s all basically personal behavior on what they feel they can do.”

Simple actions, such as lowering a thermostat by a few degrees or wearing warmer clothing at home, can help ease system pressure. Gaudet suggested, “Maybe put on a hoodie, or have a blanket for a couple of hours and then turn it back up when the timing’s over. That’s fine and you’ll save a few dollars that way.”

By encouraging mindful energy consumption, Summerside aims to foster a cooperative spirit among residents during this challenging season. As the city navigates the complexities of winter energy demands, the “Beat the Peak” initiative exemplifies proactive measures to ensure a stable and sustainable power supply for all.