When it’s hot outside and everyone runs their AC, demand for energy and the cost of power increase. SMECO offers a variety of programs to help reduce demand during peak periods of energy use, and you can earn bill credits simply by participating.
SmartTemp:
Smart thermostats are an easy and convenient way to manage your home’s energy use. SMECO’s SmartTemp program can take your smart thermostat one step further to optimize your home’s energy use when energy demand is high. In return, you can earn $50 just for enrolling, plus up to $50 in bill credits each year you participate.
When you enroll your smart thermostat, SMECO will make small, brief adjustments* during times of peak electric demand. During those short adjustments, your smart thermostat will cycle your AC compressor to reduce the high energy demand on the electric grid. Thermostat adjustments will affect the temperature of your home by a few degrees, with minimal impact on comfort. Your central AC fan will continue to circulate air throughout your home.
You can opt out of an event at any time, for any reason. Once the typical 2-3 hour event is over, your smart thermostat will trigger your AC system to automatically resume operation and adjust the temperature to your normal setting and schedule.
Reducing energy demand during peak periods increases sustainability and benefits all members in the SMECO community.
SMECO CoolSentry program participants are not eligible for SMECO’s SmartTemp program.
For more information, visit our FAQs or contact us at SMECOSmartTemp@icf.com.
*Enrolled thermostats will be adjusted by no more than four degrees during peak periods.
FlexTemp Pilot:
With SMECO’s FlexTemp pilot program, you can easily enroll your smart thermostat. You’ll help reduce demand during peak energy use periods and reduce costs when demand is high in spring, summer, fall, and winter. Plus, you’ll earn $50 for enrolling and up to $50 in bill credits each year you participate.
When you enroll, SMECO can make minor adjustments of 1 to 4 degrees to your smart thermostat during 15-minute to 1-hour events. These thermostat setbacks will reduce the high energy demand on the electric grid, while having a minor impact on the temperature of your home.
Enroll in SMECO’s SmartTemp program. If you have an eligible thermostat, we will contact you about participating in the FlexTemp pilot program. SMECO CoolSentry program participants are not eligible for SMECO’s FlexTemp pilot program.
CoolSentry:
Our SMECO CoolSentry Load Management Program offers groundbreaking technology that could help avert energy shortages in our community during the high demand summer months.
Big picture benefits
Your participation helps protect the environment and keep electricity rates lower longer.
Ready for tomorrow
Equipped with leading-edge wireless technology, the CoolSentry thermostat will do much more than save you money.
Energy tips
Save at home, at work, and on the road.
Carbon Calculator
Estimate the size of your carbon footprint with our convenient calculator.
Choose the Program That’s Right for You:
| SmartTemp | FlexTemp | CoolSentry | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enrollment Bonus | $50 | $50 | None |
| Participation Bonus Bill Credits | Up to $50 annually | Up to $50 annually | Up to $75 annually |
| Event Length | 2–3 hours (4-hour maximum) | 15 minutes–1 hour | 2–3 hours (4-hour maximum) |
| Temperature Offset | 1–4 degrees | 1–4 degrees | 1–4 degrees |
| Seasonality | Summer | Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter | Summer |
| Eligible Smart Thermostats: | Alarm.com Ecobee Honeywell Home LUX Nest Radio Thermostat Sensi |
Ecobee Honeywell Home Sensi |
CoolSentry Thermostat CoolSentry DCU (device on outdoor unit) |
EmPOWER Maryland programs are funded by a charge on your energy bill. EmPOWER programs can help you reduce your energy consumption and save you money. Learn more about EmPOWER and how you can participate.