Summer in California means more than just heat waves — it brings peak energy costs that can strain your business resources. Between 4-9 PM daily is when the grid is most constrained and energy rates are highest. Managing energy costs this summer has never been more critical for businesses.
The good news? MCE has programs designed to help businesses of all sizes turn summer’s energy challenges into savings opportunities.
1. Get Paid to Shift Your Energy Use
MCE's Peak Flex participants can generate revenue by reducing energy consumption during demand response events. Demand response events occur from June through October, when the grid faces its biggest constraints. During these events, businesses receive payments for every kilowatt they shift away from peak hours.
“We made slight changes to HVAC schedules in nearly two dozen of our buildings — helping the grid with minimal impact on building occupants and services. We earned over $15,000 in one summer and saved $3,000 on our energy bills. The strategies we developed for participating in Peak Flex Market reduced our building operations costs year-round and solidified our role as a leader in sustainability”
The Fairfield Waterman Treatment Plant established energy reduction protocols that prepared them for demand response events, days between June through October when the grid can become overloaded. These typically occur on days with hot weather. The goal of an event is to get businesses to reduce their electricity during peak times (4-9pm) to avoid stress on the grid that can lead to blackouts. The program pays you to do what’s already smart business — using less energy when it costs the most.
2. Smart Energy Management
Our Energy Management program ranges from no cost to low cost and combines strategic improvements with no-cost behavioral changes. You don’t need to replace all your existing equipment with major upgrades to see results. Simple steps like adjusting lighting schedules, optimizing equipment runtime, and training staff to be energy champions can deliver immediate savings.
3. Big Savings for Small Businesses
Even small businesses can see significant savings. MCE’s Small Business Energy Advantage program provides free assessments to identify energy saving upgrades that can lower your monthly bills, including smart thermostats, room air purifiers, and LED lighting.
4. You Don’t Need to Be the Expert
Whether you’re energy-savvy or just getting started, MCE’s business development team provides the expertise you need. Our team works with you to identify the best programs for your business size and energy profile, handling the technical details so you can focus on your business.
Start Saving This Summer
MCE has options for every business, from simple behavioral changes to comprehensive efficiency programs.
Ready to explore your savings potential? Schedule a complimentary 30-minute energy consultation with our business development team by emailing business@mceCleanEnergy.org.
This summer, let MCE help you transform peak costs into peak savings.
