General

OPPD expands smart thermostat program

OPPD’s Smart Thermostat Program has expanded, and now includes more models from several thermostat manufacturers.

These additional choices give customers more options for upgrading to a smart thermostat and participating in OPPD’s program.

Customers who install a qualifying smart thermostat and enroll in the program also receive a one-time, $75 OPPD bill credit, plus an additional $20 bill credit each year they participate. If customers have an existing qualified smart thermostat they can enroll directly through their smart thermostat app or online.

“Upgrading to a smart thermostat is a simple and easy way to effortlessly save energy and money on your utility bills,” said Judy Emswiler, product specialist at OPPD. “And partnering with OPPD through our Smart Thermostat Program makes it even more economical, all while helping the utility manage peak demand on the hottest days of the year.”

How does the program work?

On extremely hot days, when the demand for electricity tends to be highest, OPPD may declare a high-demand “event.” This allows the utility to manage a customer’s air-conditioner through their smart thermostat.

Prior to an event, the customer will receive a proactive notification both on their thermostat and their thermostat-management application.

During an event, after a one-hour pre-cooling period, the thermostat will adjust the temperature one to three degrees higher.

After the event, which are no longer than four hours in duration, the thermostat-management app will return the thermostat to the desired setting.

When OPPD may declare high-demand events:

• On no more than 15 weekdays per year, excluding holidays
• From May through October
• Between noon and 9 p.m., but lasting no longer than four hours
• No more than three times in the same week

For a complete list of eligible thermostat models and more information, visit oppd.com.