Load Curtailment
The University has entered into a partnership with The Omaha Public Power District. By signing on with the district to participate in their Load Shedding Program, we will be asked to lower our power consumption immediately when we are called upon to do so by the District. Our participation in this program is very unique. In the past, OPPD has relied on only large commercial and industrial customers to help them control their high peaks during the summer months. This is accomplished by asking them to shut down (curtail) some or all of their operations until they reach the desired amount of electrical use reduction previously agreed upon.
Typically, the University would not appear to fit the normal customer profile the district is looking for. With the help of the entire campus (students, staff and faculty) and the utilization of our new power monitoring/measuring system, we can be apart of this fun and profitable program. Yes, profitable! With our participation, we not only do our share of conserving power, but any power we do not use is purchased back from us. This situation has some other residual benefits. By helping OPPD to avoid nearing or exceeding their maximum power production, we help keep them from having to purchase backup power at very high premiums. As we all know, these additional cost are just passed on to all of their customers. Also, since electrical rates are based on customers highest peaks set during a 12 month period, our participation in the program is even more appealing.