US-based power and gas utility Pepco Holdings has signed a contract with Coverage to implement a new direct load control system for the Maryland customers of its regulated electric utility subsidiaries, Pepco and Delmarva Power.
For Pepco and Delmarva Power customers who enroll, Comverge will install either an outdoor cycling switch or a programmable thermostat that allows the utility to control the home’s central air conditioning system during critical peak energy use hours, helping to reduce demand for electricity and achieve Maryland’s electric demand reduction goals.
The company said that, the program is scheduled to run through 2015, subject to review of program cost and performance by the Maryland Public Service Commission.
Customers will receive a credit on their bills for participating in one of three program tiers, each with its own level of participation credits.
Under the agreement, Comverge will provide services including hardware, software, installation and program management for the remote control of home air conditioning systems in both utilities combined. The company will also assist with marketing and customer enrollment. The program is expected to result in a savings of more than 200MW of power.
Comverge, with over 2200 megawatts of clean energy capacity under management, is a provider of clean energy services that improve grid reliability and supply electric capacity on a cost effective basis than conventional alternatives.
