Air Conditioning load management events typically occur on weekdays during the summer (May – September) but can happen during other months throughout the year if there is a significant increase in energy demand. The actual start time, end time, duration and day of the week of each cycling event varies. These events generally begin in early afternoon and could last up to 10 hours or longer if system reliability requires a longer transition to normal operations. BGE is unable to predict the number of times it will cycle each year, or the maximum duration of each cycling event.

When a load management event happens, PeakRewards Air Conditioning Program participants will have their air conditioning cycled on and off to their full cycling participation level of 50%. During an emergency event and the transition period after the event, you cannot override your program participation. For more information, check out our frequently asked questions.​

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How to know if an event is taking place

Programmable thermostat

The word “SAVINGS” appears across the top of your thermostat screen.

Outdoor air conditioning switch

The light on the front of the switch will glow red instead of green.

Smart thermostat

When your thermostat shows the leaf icon, a load management event is taking place. When the icon is gone, the event is over.

How to stay cool during an AC Load Management Event

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Consider going to a cool place such as a movie theater, mall or pool.
• Relax in your basement, where the temperature is typically several degrees cooler than
  the rest of the house.
• Use an outdoor grill or microwave instead of your oven or stove.
• Avoid using heat-producing appliances such as dishwashers and clothes dryers.
• Close the blinds and curtains in rooms that receive a lot of sunlight.
• Turn ceiling fans on and make sure the blades rotate counterclockwise.

To find more ways to stay comfortable and save, explore the online tools available to you on BGE’s My Account.

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Connected Rewards

If you decide making the switch to a smart thermostat is right for you, BGE has you covered. Upgrade to a smart thermostat via one of BGE's residential program offerings and enroll in Connected Rewards to earn $10 a month per thermostat in bill credits for each month you participate.

Learn More about Connected Rewards