A recent federal mandate requires electricity grid operators to implement programs to manage the demand for electricity. In response to this mandate, grid operators have developed “demand response” programs in which they make regular payments to consumers – including schools – that volunteer to participate.

This means that schools will develop plans for how they could cut back on energy during times of extreme demand, helping avert brown-out or black-out situations. In return, schools receive regular payments and insight on ways to reduce energy use.

Demand response programs are fiscally and environmentally responsible ways to respond to occasional, temporary peaks in energy demand, such as those that can occur on hot summer days. The program offers incentives to schools that voluntarily participate by creating energy reduction plans to temporarily reduce electricity use when demand on the grid is so high that it could potentially outpace supply.

Demand response programs do not require that schools cut back on energy use on a regular basis, do not require schools to make changes that could compromise the comfort or safety of building occupants, and do not involve financial risk for schools.

Healthy Schools Campaign is partnering with ClearChoice Energy to be sure that schools are able to take advantage of these easy-to-implement programs.