Understanding Demand

What is Demand?

Demand is the maximum amount of power (kW) drawn for any given time interval during the billing period at your location. The demand is reset each month after the billing cycle at your location. The meter captures the highest demand at your location each month. This demand is then listed on the monthly billing. Once the billing cycle is processed the demand is reset and the meter captures the next months information. We encourage you to monitor the demand at your location on SmartHub.

Putting the Power in Your Hands

a sign that says do n't tower your power next to a sign that says level out the load

To reduce your demand charge going forward, consider adjusting appliance usage. We encourage you to level your load, and spread out the use of major appliances rather than running them all at the same time. Consider setting a timer to run your dishwasher, washer and dryer and other appliances.

Who Benefits from Demand?

Members who avoid the simultaneous use of electrical appliances at the same time will save. As a member-owned electric Cooperative, our goals are quite simple: to provide safe, reliable, low-cost power and to treat all members fairly. We hope that this rate structure will help our members use energy wisely. The reality is, when we all use less energy at once, we all save money.

Demand FAQ

  • What is the average demand (kW) on Ozark Electric Cooperative's system?

    The average residential home on Ozark Electric would have between an 8-10kW (Demand). This number can vary, much like energy usage or kWh depending on energy efficiency and lifestyle of the member. The best way to lower overall demand is by spreading out usage of larger appliances and making sure that your heating/cooling systems are running as efficient as possible.

  • How can I view my demand so I can adjust my usage accordingly?

    We encourage you to monitor your demand on SmartHub Usage Explorer. 

    Demand is also listed on your billing statement. 


  • Is there a way to avoid a demand charge on my bill?

    Every electrical device, appliance, motor, etc. will create a demand (kW). 

  • How does Ozark Electric measure demand?

    OEC measures demand in 15 minute intervals via the meter. The highest kW recorded sets member’s billed demand for that billing cycle. Demand is reset at the start of each billing cycle.

  • What are common causes for a high demand charge?

    • Inefficient or aging heating and cooling systems can account for high demand charges. Resistant heat strips, for example, can contribute to a very high demand. Consider installing an Air Source or Ground Source Heat Pump. Rebates Available. 
    • Using multiple large appliances at once can contribute to higher demand. Spread out the use of major appliances and devices rather than running them all at the same time. Do laundry and other chores that require significant amounts of electricity at different times during the day. Consider setting a timer to run the dishwasher, washer and dryer and other appliances. 

  • What are practical ways I can help lower my demand?

    • Heating and air conditioning account for a large portion of electrical usage and demand. Energy efficient air-source and geothermal heat pump systems help lower usage and demand. Energy efficiency rebates available.
    • Spread out the use of major appliances and devices rather than running them all at the same time. Do laundry and other chores that require significant amounts of electricity at different times during the day. Consider setting a timer to run the dishwasher, washer and dryer and other appliances. 

  • Will solar lower my demand?

    Using solar energy can reduce the energy charge, but solar is not an effective way to reduce demand.

    For example, solar typically generates less during the winter months, while your heating sysem is working the most.  Solar will not offset your demand throughout the year. 

Rate Change Effective April 1, 2024

Ozark Electric Implementing Rate Change to Address Rising Wholesale Power Costs:


Ozark Electric’s Board of Directors has made the difficult but necessary decision to implement a rate change effective April 1, 2024 to offset the rising cost of wholesale power from our power supplier. Since our last energy charge increase in April 2018, the cost of wholesale power and the cost to provide power has increased due to inflation, higher cost of materials, rising fuel costs, and ongoing supply chain issues.


Beginning April 1, 2024, facilities charges will increase by $4.00 per month, and kWh will decrease from 9.7 cents to 8.9 cents. Demand will also be added to Residential and Small Commercial members’ monthly bills at $3.75/kW. We understand that any rate change can be challenging for our members, but we want to assure you that we are committed to providing safe, affordable, and reliable electricity. We encourage members to take steps to reduce their electrical demand, which will help lower their bills. It’s essential to note that demand is a measure of the rate at which energy is consumed, and it is measured by kW in 15-minute intervals. To level your demand, we encourage members to spread out the use of major appliances and devices rather than running them all at the same time.


We recognize that our members may have questions about this rate change, and we are here to help. Please visit our website at www.ozarkelectric.com for more information, or contact us at 417-466-2144.


We appreciate your understanding and support as we work to provide safe, affordable, and reliable electricity to our members.


To view the article of this announcement from your January 2024 Rural Missouri Click Here

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