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DemandLevel Savings Tips for Small Business Customers
Your electric bill is changing and so are the tools to help you manage it.
What is DemandLevel?
Starting November 1, OUC will introduce a new pricing structure called DemandLevel that considers how and when you use the most energy.
Your monthly bill will now reflect two ways you use electricity:
- Consumption – Your total monthly energy use
- Peak Demand – Your highest 15‑minute usage in the previous month
Visit Service Rates & Costs for full pricing details on DemandLevel tiers or DemandLevel for more information about what demand is and how it differs from consumption.
The Best Way to Control Costs
As a business, the best way to control DemandLevel costs is by making sure your equipment, business space, appliances and more are as energy efficient as possible. That can help lower your charges for consumption and demand.
Efficiency and Demand-Reduction Tips for All Businesses
- Manage HVAC usage, particularly during peak periods, through thermostat settings and scheduling.
- Stagger the startup or use of large equipment where possible to avoid multiple high-load pieces of equipment operating at the same time.
- Review lighting controls and reduce unnecessary lighting during periods of high demand.
Industry-Specific Tips
Actionable tips specific to your industry or the technology you use.
| Type of Business | Main Consumption Drivers | Efficiency Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Professional offices, small retail, studios | HVAC, lighting, office and plug loads | Check efficiency of lighting, HVAC and other equipment. Ensure lights and equipment turned off after hours |
| Restaurants, cafes, salons, laundries | Cooking, hot water, dryers, HVAC and simultaneous start-up | Stagger use of non-essential equipment when practical |
| Small groceries, convenience stores, certain health or care uses | Refrigeration, ventilation and equipment that must remain on | Conduct routine equipment maintenance, maximize efficiency, and request an OUC conservation audit |
| Shops, service bays, light production | Compressors, motors, lifts, pumps and HVAC | Request an equipment-specific OUC conservation audit |
| Leased storefronts, nonprofits, multi-tenant offices | Shared HVAC or landlord-controlled building systems | Request an OUC conservation audit and check available energy-efficient appliances in OUC’s rebate program |
Tools and Programs That Can Help You Save
OUC offers tools and programs to help maximize your efficiency.
Business Energy Advisor
OUC’s Business Energy Advisor offers efficiency tips and strategies tailored to many types of businesses.
Rebates & Incentive Programs
Get money back — in the form of bill credits — when you invest in energy-efficient appliances and systems.
Energy Conservation Audits
During an audit, an OUC conservation specialist will analyze your facility and identify ways to improve efficiency.