It’s officially summer—and if you’ve been outside recently, you already know Mother Nature didn’t come to play. With temperatures rising and sunshine in full force, it's the season for pool floats, backyard BBQs, and chasing down the ice cream truck like you’re still 10 years old.
But as the temperatures soar, so does energy use across Texas—and that can lead to “peak energy” days. The good news? You can enjoy every sunny moment while also helping reduce strain on the grid, saving energy and money in the process.
What Is “Peak Energy,” Anyway?
"Peak" energy times happen when everyone's cranking the A/C, running appliances, and living their best (but energy-hungry) summer lives—all at once. These high-demand periods can stress the power grid and lead to higher energy costs for everyone.
How You Can Help Beat the Peak (Without Breaking a Sweat)
Here are a few easy, practical ways to stay cool, conserve energy, and keep the grid humming along:
Shift Your Power Hours
Try to use big appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers before 2 p.m. or after 7 p.m. when energy demand isn’t as high.
Set Your Thermostat Like a Pro
Keep your thermostat at 78°F when you’re home and raise it a few degrees when you’re away. Your A/C won’t have to work as hard, and you’ll see the difference on your bill.
Use Smart Tech
Smart thermostats and timers are your best friends during the summer. They adjust your energy use automatically—so you don’t have to lift a finger.
Close Those Blinds
Direct sunlight turns your home into a sauna. Keep blinds or curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day to reduce indoor temps naturally.
Air-Dry When You Can
Skip the dryer and hang clothes outside—the Texas sun works fast, and your dryer gets a break.
Don’t Forget—BEC Can Help You Save Even More
Looking to take your energy savings even further? BEC offers helpful programs designed to keep your home efficient and your bills lower:
- Energy Saver Program: Enroll today to receive personalized recommendations for improving your home or business’s energy efficiency. From HVAC systems and insulation to windows, doors, and more—you can upgrade with zero-down, low-interest, on-bill financing.
- Smart Thermostat Program: Control your home’s temperature anytime, anywhere with your mobile device and let your smart thermostat adjust automatically to help save energy. Join BEC’s Smart Thermostat Program to get a free ecobee thermostat, free installation, and monthly Apollowatt bill credits!
Every Little Bit Helps
When we all pitch in, even just a little, it goes a long way. Reducing demand during peak hours protects the power grid, lowers community-wide energy use, and helps you save money on your monthly bill.
Bottom Line: Let’s Soak Up the Fun, Not the Kilowatts
Summer is meant for good vibes, cool drinks, and long evenings with neighbors—not surprise electricity spikes. With just a few smart energy habits, you can beat the peak and still enjoy every minute of the season.
Stay cool, stay safe, and let’s make this summer a little cooler—together.