From a news release issued by Alliant Energy:
MADISON, WI – April 13, 2009 – Wisconsin Power and Light Company (WPL), an Alliant Energy company recognizes that times are tough right now. We are all trying to figure out where to cut back.
One way to energize your wallet and save cash is to enroll in the Appliance Cycling program.
When Midwestern summers bring high heat and humidity, the huge demand for electricity puts a big strain on power plants. With Alliant Energyþs Appliance Cycling program, you can help us meet electricity needs during peak demand times — and we will pay you for participating.
Alliant Energy customers who sign up for the program will have a small control switch placed on or near their central air conditioner. If the demand for electricity escalates to a critical point a signal will be sent to the switch on your air conditioner. The air conditioner will then cycle the outdoor cooling unit off and on every 15 minutes. The furnace fan will continue to circulate the cooler, drier air already in the home.
Not only will customers reduce their energy costs, Alliant Energy will pay each participating customer an incentive whenever we cycle the air conditioner.
+ 100% option: The air conditioner will be off up tosix continuous hours; you’ll receive an $8 credit per cycling event.
+ 75% option: The air conditioner will be off 22.5 minutes of each half-hour, up to six hours; you’ll receive a $5 credit per cycling event.
+ 50% option: The air conditioner will be off 15 minutes of each half hour, up to six hours; you’ll receive a $2 credit per cycling event.
Customers can save up to $40 each year and reduce energy costs without sacrificing comfort and convenience.