Smart Energy Pricing Pilot - Smart Switch FAQs
1. How does the Smart Switch Work?
2. Can I pre-schedule the days I would prefer not to participate in a Critical Peak Day event, or override an event all together?
3. How soon will my compressor resume normal operation once a Critical Peak Event is over at 7 p.m.?
1. How does the Smart Switch Work?
On planned Critical Peak Days (between 2 p.m and 7 p.m.), BGE will send a signal to your Smart Switch to cycle it on and off. Your Smart Switch will interrupt the flow of electricity to the air compressor on your air conditioner to reduce electric usage by about 50%. Only electricity to the compressor is interrupted; the rest of your home will remain unaffected. The indoor fan will continue to run if your thermostat is set for cooling. This regulation of your air conditioner reduces your electricity use when reductions are needed the most, helping BGE to keep down the cost of electricity, and save you money on your next electric bill. While not everyone responds in the same way, many customers indicate they do not notice this cycling, and it does not affect their lifestyle.
2. Can I pre-schedule the days I would prefer not to participate in a Critical Peak Day event, or override an event all together?
Yes, the switch can be overridden up to two times on Critical Peak Days; however, allowing the switch to operate as programmed will maximize savings. Call 1-866-570-7470 to override your switches function on days in which you would prefer not to participate, should a planned Critical Peak Day be called on that specific day(s). This override is likely to decrease your savings. BGE suggests that you not override Critical Peak Day operation unless necessary.
You can only pre-schedule one day in advance.
Note: Unplanned Critical Peak Periods, such as unforeseen weather and grid conditions, cannot be predicted and can occur on any day at any time. Therefore, you may only receive as little as 10 minutes of advanced notice. You will also receive notification once an unplanned period has ended. These unplanned events are not common, and typically only occur once a summer.
3. How soon will my compressor resume normal operation once a Critical Peak Event is over at 7 p.m.?
Normal air conditioning unit operation should resume within a period of approximately 3 to 5 minutes after 7 p.m. For all other questions, or if you would like further explanation on any of the above topics, please call the BGE Smart Energy Pricing Pilot Team at 1-866-570-7470 Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., or Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can also send an email to SmartEnergyPricing@bge.com.