Bryan Municipal Utilities (BMU) will again ask for customer assistance in managing peak electric demands during periods of hot, humid weather this summer in an effort to save money on local electric bills.
A significant portion of BMU’s power supply cost is based on how much electricity the community uses during peak demand periods. These peak demand periods typically occur on hot, humid summer weekdays between the hours of 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.—when air conditioner use is heavy.
“We operate the municipal power plant generators, Bryan Solar Field and Auglaize Hydroelectric Plant to reduce electric use during peak demand periods,” said BMU Director of Utilities Kevin Maynard. “We also interrupt operation of the municipal well pumps and water treatment plant and rely on our two elevated storage tanks (water towers) to maintain system pressure during the interruption.”
Maynard says local electric consumers can help save money on their bills through simple actions such as turning off unnecessary lights, drawing window blinds and setting air conditioner 
thermostats to 78 degrees during peak demand periods.
BMU plans to notify customers when their voluntary assistance is needed by issuing Peak Alerts through social media and local media outlets. The Peak Alerts will include easy tips on how consumers can reduce electric use during peak demand hours.
“Community response to Peak Alerts in the past has been terrific,” Maynard added. “By working together, we can help keep everyone’s electric bills lower.”
Customers are encouraged to check the BMU Facebook page and website www.cityofbryan.net for Peak Alert information and easy tips to help reduce peak electric demands.