Simple steps can help eliminate our problem with peak electrical demand. Some changes cost nothing. Others actually save money in the long run.
by Michael Hopping
Progress Energy defines wintertime “peak hours,” the times when demand is highest, as 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays. Peak hours from April through September are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., again on weekdays. Weekends are off-peak.
We can substantially reduce peak demand by shifting as much electrically intensive activity as possible to off-peak hours. This includes heating water and buildings, running clothes dryers, and using air conditioning. Nobody wants to swelter or freeze by turning off a heating or cooling system. The Progress EnergyWise program compromises by automatically cycling them on and off for brief periods when demand is highest.
Second, we can reduce the amount of electricity we use overall.
Replacing regular lightbulbs — but not those on dimmer switches — with
compact fluorescents saves money and power, as do Energy Star
appliances. Replace an electric water heater with a solar-thermal or
gas system. Better home insulation, caulking around doors and windows,
and energy-efficient windows also cut long-term costs and power
consumption.
These are just a start. For more ideas see the Progress Energy
web page
www.progress-energy.com/custservice/carres/efficiency/index.asp and
check out the Southern Energy and Environment Expo at the WNC Ag
Center, August 21-23.
Arts & EntertainmentInternational Ambassador of Hip-Hop, Rennie Harris PuremovementWednesday, 11 January 2012
The preeminent hip-hop dance company in the world, Rennie Harris Puremovement brings pure, contagious stage magic to Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack Place at 8 p.m. Thursday and Friday, February 23-24, 2012.
Win Tickets to this Performance!
Click here for details + Full Story
Arts & EntertainmentWin Tickets to the Rennie Harris Puremovement performanceTuesday, 10 January 2012
For Local Middle School or High School Students Only
Question: Please tell us in 200 words or less why Hip-Hop should be considered an art form. Your essay will be judged by the staff of the Urban News, and featured in the February edition, along with your picture. The... + Full Story
Our TownThe People’s Scholar, Dr. Boyce Watkins, to Keynote Prayer BreakfastWednesday, 11 January 2012
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Association of Asheville & Buncombe County announced that Dr. Boyce Watkins will give the keynote address at the 31st annual Prayer Breakfast honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The breakfast will be the highlight of a series of events from Wednesday,... + Full Story
Our TownGetting to Diversity, Inclusion, and Cultural Competence in Multicultural EnvironmentsWednesday, 11 January 2012
by Don C. Locke
Why “getting to?” Every organization is dynamic in terms of diversity and inclusion. Every organization is in the process of becoming diverse and inclusive. If we really believe in the importance of all people and groups, then every organization has room to... + Full Story
CommunitiesMLK Week Events & CelebrationsWednesday, 11 January 2012
31st Annual Prayer Breakfast - 8:30 a.m.
The Prayer Breakfast begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Grand
Ballroom of the historic Grove Park Inn & Resort at 290 Macon
Avenue. Guest speaker Dr. Boyce Watkins will be joined by the Unity
& Fellowship Choir and other distinguished guests.... + Full Story
