CPS Energy Resolves to Save 58 Megawatts in 2011

CPS Energy is closing out the year 2010 with an anticipated energy use reduction that is 70 percent above this year’s goal and aiming for an even larger decrease in the new year. The goals are part of the company’s Save for Tomorrow Energy Plan (STEP), which calls for a cut of 771 MW – the equivalent of a power plant – by the year 2020.

This year’s mission was to reduce energy use by 45 megawatts (MW). As 2010 comes to a close, an estimated 76 MW have been saved. In 2011, CPS Energy resolves to save 58 MW.

“Surpassing this year’s STEP goal is a community-wide success. Customers increased their energy efficiency by upgrading appliances, investing in solar, making home renovations, and rethinking business practices. These are great choices that we support through a variety of rebates and programs and we will continue to support them into the new year,” said Bruce Evans, director of customer solutions and delivery.

CPS Energy provided more than 17,000 rebates to customers in 2010. The rebates cover energy savers such as efficient appliances, roofs, insulation, windows, lawn mowers, solar systems, solar water heaters and trees. The most popular rebate is for air conditioning (AC) units, with CPS Energy providing more than 9,000 rebates for AC units.

Energy efficiency also was gained through the Casa Verde weatherization assistance program via federal stimulus funds awarded to the City of San Antonio by the state. Through the CPS Energy-managed program, local companies made 1,500 homes more efficient, healthy and safe. Low-income households which qualify for Casa Verde receive upgrades that include caulking, sealing, insulation, AC system improvements, and other efficiency measures.

Residential customers with Peak Saver thermostat units garnered additional savings. With more than 39,000 of the free programmable units in operation, customer savings exceeded 700 megawatt hours (MWh) during the summer of 2010.

CPS Energy commercial customers also produced significant results by participating in the Demand Response program. Demand Response customers alone saved 46 MW amid the hottest months of the year.

With the 2011 goal of 58 MW already planned, customers are encouraged to take the following steps to help the San Antonio area further reduce its carbon footprint as well as help CPS Energy reach its STEP goal while lowering their own energy use at home or work:

Replace inefficient appliances, when possible, with energy saving models.
Set your thermostat between 68 and 70 degrees during cold months. In warmer months, set it between 78 and 80 degrees while at home.
Repair leaks in your air duct system.
Add caulk, weather-stripping and foam gaskets to reduce air leaks.
Check the insulation in your attic. The recommended level of insulation for an attic in South Texas is R-30 to R-60.
Turn off the lights and ceiling fans when you leave a room or office, unplug electrical device chargers and other like items when not in use, and shut down computers and game systems when finished.
Participate in CPS Energy’s Peak Saver (residential) or Demand Response (commercial) programs to help meet energy needs during peak demand.
Consider replacing your air conditioner if it is 10 years or older.
Check your air conditioner filter every month, and replace dirty filters.
Install solar screens and solar film on your windows to reduce heat infiltration.
Invest in a solar system or solar water heater.
Plan for the long-term – plant trees that will provide shade and reduce energy use. Winter is the best time to plant and a rebate is available until April 1, 2011.

Many home improvements and appliance upgrades also are eligible for rebates. Visit cpsenergy.com for more information about rebates and programs such as Peak Saver and Demand Response.