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 averaged from a 15-minute block. 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.

Co-op 101 Presentation

View the video below from the Co-op 101 event hosted on Monday, September 9. The video also includes a demand demonstration presented by Ryan Post, Board Director (District 5) and Drew Meier, Meter Technician for Ozark Electric. That presentation can be found at the 1:08:40 mark in the video. Due to the nature of the presentation and the Q&A format, some audience questions may be hard to hear. We recommend adjusting your volume settings and/or turning on the subtitles/closed captions at the bottom right of the video.