SummerSaverSM
The EnergyAdvantage® SummerSaver program allows you to do your part to save energy by allowing us to control the operation of your home air conditioner when the demand for electricity is highest. By reducing peak demand, we're able to provide energy more efficiently and reliably.
Single-family owner-occupied homes in South Dakota with a central air conditioning unit or air-source heat pump may be eligible.
Here's How it Works
MidAmerican installs a small cycling device on your home's siding near the central air conditioning unit. From June 1 to Sept. 30, the device will, on peak usage days, govern the degree to which your air conditioning operates. When cycling is necessary, air conditioners are cycled between approximately 2 and 7 p.m., but never on weekends or holidays. MidAmerican uses randomized programming to vary the cycling starting time across our service territory, so the actual start time for each device varies between 2 and 2:30 p.m. and the corresponding end time is between 7 and 7:30 p.m. The cycling device does not control the indoor air conditioner blower fan, so previously cooled air continues to circulate during cycling periods.
For your conservation efforts, you'll receive a $40 end-of-season incentive the first year and a $30 incentive in following years, if you participate in the SummerSaver program the entire season. If participation is discontinued during the season, the incentive will be prorated accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions About the SummerSaver Program:
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Will I be charged for joining the SummerSaver program?
- No. The cycling device will be mounted on your house and connected to your air conditioner at no cost to you. An outside disconnect switch is required. This also will be installed at no charge.
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What do SummerSaver members have to say about the program?
- Most participants say they do not notice when cycling occurs. Your home's insulation level, directional orientation and shade tree coverage are factors that influence cycling's affect on in-house temperatures. Some homes may experience an in-house temperature increase of 3 to 5 degrees during cycling.
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How do I receive my incentive for participating in the SummerSaver program?
- Your end-of-season incentive will be credited to your October energy bill. One incentive credit is available per household, regardless of the number of air conditioners cycled.
MidAmerican continues to expand the geographic reach of the SummerSaver program. A list of South Dakota SummerSaver communities includes: Alcester, Dakota Dunes, Fairview, Hudson, Jefferson and North Sioux City. Geographic and equipment availability, minimum summer usage and other restrictions may apply. SummerSaver is not available in Nebraska.
Caution: SummerSaver is not recommended for households with occupants who have health problems such as asthma, heart disease or respiratory conditions.
Questions?
Call our representatives at
800-437-2976.