As electrification continues to expand into more areas of daily life, United remains committed to educating members on how to stay in control of their energy use. As a member-owned cooperative, it is our shared responsibility to embrace these advancements while practicing smart energy habits that benefit both our homes and our community.

Electricity powers more aspects of  modern daily life than ever before. From how we maintain our yards to what we drive, electricity is the preferred energy source for many modern technologies. Understanding how to manage this growing demand without increasing costs will be key to getting the most value from the electricity that powers our lives.

Electrification isn’t just a concept discussed by engineers or energy professionals. It is something many of us experience in small ways every day. Think about something as simple as a flashlight. Not long ago, many of us searched through drawers looking for AA or AAA batteries before heading into the dark. Today, it’s much more common to grab a flashlight or headlamp that recharges itself on the counter or in a docking station.

The same shift is happening in other parts of our routines. Instead of reaching for a gas can before mowing the yard, many homeowners now grab a battery pack off the charger. Electric lawn mowers, trimmers and leaf blowers have become increasingly common because they are quiet, easy to maintain and simple to operate.

These small changes are examples of electrification—the process of replacing traditional fuel sources with electricity to power the tools and technology we use every day.

These examples may seem minor, however, they represent a much larger trend. Electrification is steadily expanding into larger parts of our daily routines.

More consumers are choosing electric or battery powered products, as technology improves, and these products become more reliable and efficient. Electric vehicle owners can charge their cars overnight at home instead of stopping at a gas station. Electric heating and cooling technologies, such as heat pumps, are also improving rapidly, further cementing themselves as one of the best options in our region for heating and cooling homes. That same technology employed in heat pump water heaters can provide hot water while using significantly less energy than traditional water heaters by using available heat energy in the environment.

Innovations like these provide new levels of comfort, efficiency and convenience. However, they also highlight the growing importance of understanding how electricity is used within the home.

As more devices and systems rely on electricity, overall energy demand can increase. Managing that demand wisely becomes an important part of maintaining a reliable and affordable electric system.

Practicing simple energy management habits can help members make the most of electrification while keeping energy costs under control. Actions like running large appliances during off-peak hours, maintaining heating and cooling systems, sealing air leaks in the home and monitoring energy use can make a meaningful difference over time.

Technology is also giving homeowners new tools to stay in control. Smart thermostats, connected appliances and advanced electrical panels allow homeowners to track energy usage and adjust their habits more easily than ever before. These tools can help families better understand how electricity is used throughout the day and identify opportunities to save energy and money.

When members practice smart energy habits, it helps reduce strain on the electric system during times of peak demand. Managing peak demand helps the cooperative maintain reliable service and keep costs stable for the entire membership. United offers programs like Beat the Peak and Bring Your Own Thermostat (B.Y.O.T.) to help manage usage during peak times. 

Beat the Peak is an early-warning messaging system that tells members when energy prices peak, and how to reduce energy use during those times. The program is voluntary and benefits all co-op members. 

B.Y.O.T. is an incentive program that allows members to register their Nest or Honeywell smart Wi-Fi thermostats to help reduce demand during peak energy periods. This summer program runs from June 1 through September 30. Members can earn $10 for each month they are enrolled, totaling up to $40 per season, while helping lower overall system demand.

Electrification isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, and every home is different. Factors such as home size, insulation levels, heating systems, and lifestyle habits all can influence how much energy a household uses.

That’s why United continues to invest in its Energy Solutions department to help educate members about the energy they consume and the choices available to them.

United’s Energy Solutions Specialist Eric Compton said that a free energy audit is one of the most valuable resources available to members. 

“The goal of an energy audit is to help members better understand their home’s energy performance and identify opportunities to improve comfort and efficiency,” Compton said.

During an energy audit, United’s trained energy auditors evaluate how energy is used throughout the home. They examine insulation levels, air leakage, heating and cooling systems and other factors that influence energy efficiency.

United’s energy auditors also stay informed about emerging technologies and how they may impact home energy use. As electrification continues to grow, new equipment and systems will continue entering the market. Having knowledgeable professionals available to help evaluate these technologies can make it easier for members to make informed decisions.

Electrification is likely to continue shaping the future of how we live, work and travel. As technology advances, more tools, appliances and vehicles will rely on electricity as their primary power source.

This shift presents exciting opportunities for increased efficiency and innovation, but it also reinforces the importance of staying informed about how energy is used.

For United, education remains one of the most valuable services we can provide. Helping members understand their energy use empowers them to make decisions that support their household budgets. By working together and making thoughtful energy choices, members can enjoy the benefits of electrification while helping United maintain a reliable and affordable electric system for everyone.