Beginning in June, Todd-Wadena Electric Cooperative (TWEC) will begin a large-scale project to replace demand response units (DRUs) associated with several of our load management programs.
Members may see TWEC meter technicians Mike and Bob working throughout our service territory, or a contracted Bergstrom Electric electrician. The contracted crews will be driving Bergstrom Electric vans as pictured later in this article.
The project is necessary because many of the existing demand response units currently installed on homes and businesses are reaching the end of their service life and are becoming obsolete. These devices play an important role in helping the cooperative manage electrical demand during periods of high energy use.
TWEC originally began portions of this replacement project several years ago. However, the project was temporarily paused due to external factors. Now that equipment availability has improved and planning efforts have resumed, the cooperative is moving forward once again with the project to continue upgrading and modernizing the system.
Load management programs have long helped keep costs lower for participating members and the cooperative as a whole. During times of peak demand, DRUs allow TWEC to temporarily control certain loads such as electric water heaters, dual fuel systems, irrigations, and air conditioning systems in exchange for discounted electric rates or bill credits.
As technology changes, replacement equipment is needed to ensure these programs continue operating reliably into the future. Updating the units also helps improve communication capabilities, reliability, and long-term supportability of the system.
With the majority of this equipment located on the outside of homes, barns, or other outbuildings, members will not be contacted prior to the exchange. Crews will complete the work as efficiently as possible; in most cases, members may simply notice crews working near their meter or service area for a short period of time.
We appreciate members’ cooperation and patience as we complete this important system upgrade over the coming months. Maintaining reliable demand response programs continues to be an important tool in helping TWEC manage wholesale power costs, reduce strain on the electric grid during peak periods, and continue providing value to our members.
Daniel Carlisle
President/CEO & General Counsel
