October 2016 Share Package Utility Contacts

Pam Spettel, Blachly-Lane Electric, (541) 284-2147, spettelp@blachlylane.coop

Jeff Beaman, Central Electric Co-op, (541) 312-7753, jbeaman@cec.coop

Sarah Johnson, Clatskanie PUD, (503) 308-4592, sjohnson@clatskaniepud.com

James Ramseyer, Consumers Power, (541) 929-8531, jamesra@cpi.coop

Christine Stallard, Coos-Curry Electric Co-op, (541) 247-6638, christine@cooscurryelectric.com

Sharon Crisp, Copper Valley Electric Assn., (907) 835-7005, crisp@cvea.org

Denise Whitehead, Glades Electric Co-op, (800) 226-4025, dwhitehead@gladesec.com

Lindsay Peak, Gulf Coast Electric Co-op, (850) 639-2216, lpeak@gcec.com

Lara Petitclerc-Stokes, Oregon Trail Electric Co-op, (541) 524-2858, lpetitclerc@otecc.com

Corby Erwin, Plumas-Sierra Rural Electric Co-op, (530) 832-6034, cerwin@psrec.coop

Mike Hengel, Valley Electric Assn., (775) 727-2252, mhengel@vea.coop

When President Franklin Roosevelt signed the Rural Electrification Act of 1936, the lights came on for rural America and power cooperatives were born.

Eighty years later, Courtney Linville—communications coordinator at Central Electric based in Redmond, Oregon—is learning what it means to be a part of the cooperative culture.

Courtney is among the next genera-tion of cooperative employees shepherd-ing the industry into the coming decades.

It is not always an easy task, says Courtney, whose job is to deliver the cooperative’s message to the community.

“I would say the upcoming generation—millennials and some Generation Xers—don’t understand the model,” she says.

Courtney uses social media tools such as Twitter to help spread the cooperative’s message, but the concept of public power and the cooperative model does not lend itself to the 140-character limit.

Courtney is not alone in her quest to find a way to connect with the younger generation.

Gary Newman—who serves on the board of directors for Golden Valley Electric Association based in Fairbanks, Alaska—wonders what will grab the attention of would-be board members.

“What most people pay attention to is when something hits them in the head,” Gary says. “It’s a social thing, and you have to decide what’s important to you.”

He notes that taking part in the democracy of the cooperative is consis-tent with his family upbringing, which stressed service.

While Gary says time is a major fac-tor in cooperative participation for the younger generation, understanding the unique business model also is a hurdle.

“When I go to the directors’ confer-ences, I’m going to see older, gray-haired types like me because they have the time and they understand,” he explains.

In an era in which selfies are popular, it can be a challenge to explain the coop-erative model to an age group with a rep-utation for asking, “What’s in it for me?”

This may be because cooperatives and public power are based on community rather than individuality, Gary says.

A cooperative is a not-for-profit insti-tution that provides at-cost service to its customers. Because the customers own the cooperative, they are called members.

Each member has one vote and is wel-come to attend meetings run by a govern-ing board that is elected by the members.

“I wasn’t familiar with the co-op model,” Courtney says. “I came into it with eyes wide open because it was a dif-ferent experience.”

Before joining the staff at Central Electric, Courtney had worked with both large and small businesses for the Bend Chamber of Commerce.

She says that position and the lessons learned proved helpful in her transition to the cooperative world.

“The chamber of commerce was about helping businesses get the most out of their membership,” Courtney says. “At the end of the day, this is about helping members get the most out of their co-op.”

While Courtney’s association with public power is new, Gary has been involved in the industry for years. Before being elected to the board last year, he attended more than 150 meetings.

“At the annual meeting, we would get 1,000 to 1,200 people,” Gary says.

But after the cooperative stopped giv-ing residents a $15 credit on their power bill for attending, the crowds dwindled—and it was not just the younger genera-tion that stopped showing up, he says.

“We had to decide: Do we want people to come to the meetings that don’t want to be there?” Gary asks. “It is a business meeting, not a picnic. We’ve outgrown that, I think.”

Plugging In a New Generation

Power LinesEnergy News For Consumers

Golden Valley Electric Association Director Gary Newman speaks to a member he represents.

October is National Cooperative Month; Public Power Week is celebrated October 2-8

By Caitlyn May

28 O C TO B E R 2016

Historically, cooperative meetings have been the social event of the year. While that remains a big draw in a few areas, it no longer is the case for many others.

That has co-ops searching for other ways to make community connections.

Both Courtney and Gary say social media seems to be effective.

“We had a snowstorm that knocked out power for a week,” Gary says. “At the end of the week, we had 1,000 new members to our Facebook page. People

were posting about power outages and communicating.”

Community engagement also is shift-ing to include a digital presence.

Whatever the method, cooperatives and publicly owned utilities are looking for ways to impress upon the next gen-eration the business model that makes them unique—and to inspire involve-ment by the next generation.

“One of the things any board should be looking at is filling gaps,” Gary says.

“You want diversity in expertise and per-spectives. I think, generationally, that’s something to look at.”

Courtney says she looks forward to educating those unfamiliar with public power or the cooperative model.

Coming from outside the industry, she says the take away is that cooperatives are all about community.

“The co-op model gives us a voice,” she says. “It gives us power. You are part of something bigger than yourself.”

Courtney Linville, communications coordinator for Central Electric Cooperative, works with Member Services Director Jeff Beaman on selection of photos for the cooperative’s 75th anniversary book.

Rochdale PrinciplesGuide All CooperativesThe fi rst step toward member-owned cooperatives started in Rochdale, England, in December 1844 when a group of weavers started a store.

One of the members, Charles Howarth, introduced guidelines on how the group would operate.

These principles—introduced to the United States by the National Grange in 1874—form the basis for all cooperative organizations today: Voluntary and Open Membership.

Anyone willing to accept the respon-sibilities of membership can join.

Democratic Member Control.Each member has one vote, and selects those who represent him.

Member Economic Participation.Revenues in excess of operating costs are returned to members in propor-tion to their fi nancial contribution.

Autonomy and Independence.At all times, co-ops ensure members continue to control operations.

Education, Training and Informa-tion. Members, employees and the community are taught about co-ops.

Cooperation Among Cooperatives. Co-ops work together locally, region-ally, nationally and internationally.

Concern for Community.Co-ops work for the sustainable development of their communities.

O C TO B E R 2016 29

25

Cut Your Utility Bills

Patrick Keegan

To ask a question, send an email to Patrick Keegan at energytips@collaborativeefficiency.com.Copyright 2016, Patrick Keegan

OC TOBER 2016 25

Make sure your contractor seals air leaks in the attic around furnace flues, electrical boxes and exposed air ducts.Photo by U.S. EPA

Is Your Attic Haunted

By Lack of Insulation?

Q: Winter will be here before we know it. Will more insulation help keep my heating bills low?

A: When your home is not properly sealed and insulated, cold air sneaks in and heat escapes, making your heating system work harder and your home less comfortable. Sealing and insulating your home to effi-cient levels can cut your heating and cool-ing costs by an average of 15 percent while making you more comfortable.

Your attic is one of the first places to insulate. It is usually accessible and easy to inspect for air leaks and insulation levels. Insulation standards increased in 2012. Many homes built before then do not have the recommended amount of attic insulation.

Insulation is graded by its R-value. The higher the R-value, the greater the insu-lating power. If you live in a mild climate, your attic should have a minimum grade of R-38, or 13 to 14 inches of insulation. If you live in a colder climate, R-49 is the minimum recommendation, or 16 to 18 inches. More may be needed depending on your home and exact climate.

How can you tell if your attic is lack-ing insulation? If you can see the ceil-ing joists on the attic floor, there is not enough insulation.

Hiring a trained energy auditor is the best way to diagnose a lack of insulation or other energy-related issue. See if your utility offers energy audits or can refer you to a local energy auditor. Your utility may offer a rebate for attic insulation.

Once you know you need more attic insulation, there are a few things to do before laying down more insulation:

• If you store items in your attic, con-sider another suitable storage location in your home. If you must use your attic for storage, build a platform high enough to allow installation of insulation.

• If you live in an older home, check your attic’s electric wiring. Is the insula-tion around the wires degrading? Do you have knob-and-tube wiring? In either

case, you need to replace the wiring before proceeding.

• Installing insulation is messy, poten-tially dangerous and requires special equipment. Fortunately, there are many experienced insulation contractors.

You should discuss a few things with a contractor before you agree to hire them:

• Have your contractor seal air leaks around furnace flues, electrical boxes and any exposed attic air ducts. Air leaks can bring warm, moist air into the attic, which can reduce the insulation value and create mold.

• Pay attention to your attic door or hatch. This entry point is a significant contributor to heat loss and heat gain.

• If you have existing attic insulation, it is not necessary to remove it unless it is wet, moldy or contains animal waste.

• Make sure there is sufficient ventila-tion in the attic. Warmth and moisture can build up in an improperly ventilated attic, which can lead to roof problems, such as roof rot or ice dams.

There are two types of insulation you can place on your attic floor: batt/roll or blown-in/loose fill. Blown-in insulation requires special equipment, but fills the space better than batt insulation, which can leave gaps without careful cutting and placement around ceiling joists, vents and other attic impediments.

Insulation is most commonly made from fiberglass, cellulose or mineral wool. Many energy advisers recom-mend blown-in cellulose insulation due to its superior coverage, high R-value and air sealing abilities. Blown-in cellu-lose insulation is treated with boric acid, which acts as a fire retardant and insect repellent.

Before you get started, consult with a local energy auditor or insulation contrac-tor. They can help decide what insulation type will work best in your home. n

This column was co-written by Pat Keegan and Amy Wheeless of Collaborative Efficiency. For more information, visit www.collaborative efficiency.com/energytips.

Blown-in insulation can fill spaces better than batt insulation.Photo courtesy of Weatherization Assistance Project

8 O C TO B E R 2016

I didn’t start looking for a career in the electrical util-ity industry, but fate provided an opportunity I didn’t know existed.

I was fortunate as a high school senior to apply for and be awarded the Employment for Education Award by Tillamook PUD in 1973. The award pro-vides employment during summer, Christmas and spring breaks for a graduating senior during his/her college. I recommend other utilities consider similar programs, as several full-time employees came to the PUD through this and other high school intern pro-grams. I don’t think any of us seniors understood the opportunities electrical utilities provide.

Publicly owned utilities exist for one reason: to be of service to their customers. I am proud to have been a part of an organization that takes this mission seriously.

Not only are employees dedicated to this ideal dur-ing the normal work day, they are able to respond 24/7. It is not unusual for employees to miss birth-days, Thanksgiving or Christmas celebrations while responding to outages. The spirit of service is demon-strated in many ways, with employees volunteering in community organizations, boards and charities.

In the spirit of public power, utility employees develop professional and peer-to-peer relationships with employees at other utilities, providing opportu-nities to share ideas, questions and information. This shared collective knowledge helps public utilities be more efficient by embracing new ideas, technology and solving problems.

During my 38 years of full-time employment, I worked in the engineering and operations depart-ments. I observed many changes to the utility indus-try during my tenure. Many changes seemed simple enough on the surface, but provided profound improvements. Examples of this are battery-operated tools and the use of bucket trucks. These changes were initially instituted to help crews be more pro-ductive, but not fully appreciated at first was the reduced wear and tear on their bodies.

When I first worked at the PUD, linemen didn’t retire, they went out on disability due to back, hip or knee injuries when they could no longer perform the work. Several tooling and work practice improve-ments have significantly reduced repetitive movement injuries. It is now normal for workers to retire healthy.

Throughout my career, I was impressed with how

the industry embraces apprenticeship programs. There has been a focus on continued training and education at all levels in recent years, resulting in the best-trained work force the industry has ever expe-rienced. It is not unusual for a person to spend an entire career in the utility industry but have many dif-ferent jobs.

The safety of utility employees has always been taken seriously. Providing electrical service is chal-lenging enough in ideal conditions, but it becomes much more complicated when performed in danger-ous environments. Work is performed day and night, often in challenging weather and terrain.

In recent years, there has been a focus on further improving safety by developing a culture of safety. This involves all employees taking responsibility for safety and receiving ongoing training in all aspects of their work, as well as being provided the proper tools and personal protective equipment to safely perform their duties.

Probably the biggest changes I observed were brought about by the adoption of electronics and soft-ware systems. This was viewed initially with skepti-cism—the industry was conservative and reluctant to adopt change without demonstrated experience.

In the past, workers traveled to substations to monitor the devices, delayeing outage responses. Now, electronic devices and software programs are the norm. They perform multiple functions with continu-ous failure monitoring.

Supervisory control and data acquisition systems are capable of monitoring the status of the electrical system at the dispatch centers, even at small utilities.

Automated metering infrastructure allows meters to be read remotely and provide customers online access to their billing and hour-by-hour use informa-tion at many utilities. This same system, when used in conjunction with an outage management system, notifies the utility of customer outages and assists with the management and restoration of multiple out-ages simultaneously.

All of these improvements have allowed utilities to efficiently provide more reliable service and provide customers access to information never before avail-able to them.

There is a lot to miss, but the relationships devel-oped with customers, coworkers and peers are what I most enjoyed. n

A Career in Public Power Career public utility employee sees the evolution of providing power

Bob White worked full time for 38 years with Tillamook PUD in Tillamook, Oregon.

Voice BoxCommentary on Power Issues

Consumers Power

By Paul Wesslund

If you want to take a big risk, try predicting the future of nuclear power.

Nuclear power gener-ates about 20 percent of the electricity in the country. Currently in the U.S., 100 nuclear reactors operate at 60 plants in 30 states.

There are reasons to think that should grow dramatically. Nuclear reactors run reliably 24-7 and produce none of the greenhouse gases that are linked to climate change.

There are also reasons to be surprised its allowed to produce as big a share of our electricity as it does. Radioactivity and using nuclear fuel are complicated and dangerous, and the engi-neering and security needed to keep nuclear power safe and reliable can be expensive.

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Information Administration predicts nuclear power will produce a slightly smaller share of electricity in the U.S. through the year 2040. In the rest of the world, nuclear capacity is expected to double.

On the other hand, a major financial analysis firm says that slight drop in U.S. nuclear power could change. Fitch Ratings said last year

that federal climate change rules and support for new, more efficient technologies “could slow the decline in nuclear power generation.”

Dale Bradshaw, an expert on electric generation and distribution who works with electric co-ops, sees reasons to expect an increase in nuclear power.

Bradshaw, CEO of Electrivation LLC and a consultant to the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, says a main block to the growth of nuclear power

is the current relatively low costs of natural gas, wind and solar.

He notes that natural gas prices have started to rise and that renewable energy subsi-dies are set to expire in a few years. He also says research into advanced nuclear reac-tors will lead to large improve-ments in safety and efficiency.

One sign of that innova-tion came this year when the Tennessee Valley Authority applied to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission for permission to explore small

modular reactor units that would be easier and less expensive to build and operate.

In June 2016, TVA con-nected a new nuclear unit to the power grid, making it the first new reactor to come online since 1996. Four addi-tional units are coming online during the next five years.

The future of nuclear energy will depend on a variety of factors. But today, nuclear energy remains reliable, affordable and an important component of our nation’s fuel mix. n

Predicting the Future of Nuclear PowerSome forecasts see growth, others not so much

8 O C TO B E R 2016

By Jeff Beaman

The number of Central Electric Co-op members taking part in our biennial sat-isfaction survey was the largest since the survey began in the 1980s.

Of the 1,973 respondents, 75 percent indicated they were “highly satisfied,” 17 percent were “somewhat satisfied,” 6 per-cent were “neutral” and the balance regis-tered either “unsatisfied” or “don’t know.” The 2014 survey respondents rated CEC the same in overall satisfaction, with slightly different distribution among the neutral and unsatisfied ratings.

“We are extremely pleased that such a large majority of our members rate us so positively,” says CEC President and CEO Dave Markham. “Our results put us near the head of the class among all electric utilities nationwide, both cooperatives and investor-owned utilities. It says so much about the quality of our employees and the work they perform.”

Independent research firm DHM Research of Portland administered the 49-question survey. Conducted online throughout June, the survey was open to every CEC member. It took an aver-age of seven minutes to complete and let members rate the co-op anonymously in such areas as customer service, handling of outages, billing and payment practices, rates, and climate change and renewable energy issues.

The results help Central Electric iden-tify areas to target for improvement and reaffirm the importance of maintaining performance in areas members consider most important.

Members gave CEC favorable rat-ings in dependable, reliable service (97 percent); reasonable rates (87 percent); keeping members informed of changes

CEC Member Satisfaction Remains High92 percent satisfaction rating equals 2014 results

Central Electric

Satisfaction with Central Electric Cooperative

60%76% 75%

23%16% 17%

13% 4% 6%

2012 2014 2016Very satisfied Somewhat satisfied NeutralSomewhat unsatisfied Very unsatisfied Don't know

92%92%83%

DHM Research | Central Electric Cooperative Customer Satisfaction Survey | August 2016

How Good a Job is CEC Doing Providing Services?

DHM Research | Central Electric Cooperative Customer Satisfaction Survey | August 2016

Dependable, reliable service

Keeping members informed aboutchanges that may affect them

Timely response tooutages/maintenance

Responsive customer service

Keeping members informed abouthow they can be more energy…

Reasonable rates

Knowledgeable and helpfulemployees

Advocating for members' interestsbefore elected officials

Excellent Good 97%

90%

90%

88%

88%

87%

87%

63% *Don’t know: 33%

4 O C TO B E R 2016

affecting service or rates (90 percent); timely responses to outages (89 percent); knowledgeable and helpful employees (87 percent); and keeping members informed about energy efficiency (88 percent).

“We are always on the lookout for ways to serve members better, but it’s equally important that we don’t lose sight of the need to keep doing a good job where we’ve been doing well,” says Dave.

“Maintaining quality requires time and resources, so we have to remain aware of that when we identify new services we can offer or processes we can introduce. This makes efficiency important in all that we do.”

For the first time, the survey asked about member attitudes toward the role of renewable energy sources and climate change. The questions used a 10-point scale, where 10 indicates a high level of agreement and 1 means the respondent does not agree at all. The highest level of agreement was a 7.1, registered by a statement that renewable energy sources are important to enhancing our power supply. The statement that integrating clean energy will create new jobs earned a 6.7 agreement rating. Those who feel protecting the environment is important even if it costs them more registered a 6.4 rating.

Climate change related questions showed attitudes closer to a split among members. A 5.9 agreement rating was given regarding the statement that the member is motivated to use less electric-ity to combat climate change and global warming. The statement that climate change is real, but a cyclical process and out of our control, registered a 5.6 agree-ment rating. The statement that climate change is overstated received a 5.1 rating on the agreement scale. n

Importance of Membership Benefits

87%

90%

67%

71%

63%

43%

12%

8%

27%

22%

28%

31%

Responsive customer service

Rates 21% lower than average

Energy efficiency programs

Status as not-for-profit, member-owned

Local control/membershiprepresentation

Capital credits

Very important Somewhat important

DHM Research | Central Electric Cooperative Customer Satisfaction Survey | August 2016

Satisfaction with Interpersonal Customer Service

77%

81%

55%

50%

18%

13%

11%

14%

The service or information you received

Answering phone calls promptly and courteouslyduring business hours and weekdays

The service provided by linemen, engineers andfield personnel (1)

Answering phone calls promptly and courteouslyduring weeknights and weekends (1)

(1) results indicate lower levels of experiencewith service (low dissatisfaction ratings)

Very satisfied Somewhat satisfied Somewhat dissatisfied Very dissatisfied N/A Don't know

DHM Research | Central Electric Cooperative Customer Satisfaction Survey | August 2016

O C TO B E R 2016 5

Shooting at Power Lines Costs Big BucksThe outdoor opportunities on the south-ern Oregon Coast are a big part of what makes living here so special. This hunt-ing season, many of you will be out searching for trophy deer or elk. But if you are not aware of power equipment in the area, it could cost you big bucks.

Bullets have hit power lines, insula-tors and other equipment, costing Coos-Curry Electric Cooperative thousands of dollars. Some of these bullets have been stray shots, while others appear to be intentional acts of vandalism. Either way, we all share in the expense of repairs and the inconvenience of a power outage.

Damaging utility equipment is dan-gerous and illegal. When insulators are shot or damaged, power can flow to the ground, creating a hazard for anyone in the vicinity of the power pole. Sometimes

the damage may go unnoticed for long periods, only to be discovered when the power goes out unexpectedly.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when hunting this fall:

• Do not shoot at or near power lines or insulators.

• Familiarize yourself with the loca-tion of power lines and equipment on land where you shoot.

• Avoid using lofting poles near over-head power lines. Remember, electricity can jump across a considerable distance.

• Be especially careful in wooded areas where power lines may not be as visible.

• Do not use power poles or towers to support equipment used in your hunt-ing activity.

• Take notice of warning signs and keep clear of electrical equipment.

• Do not climb poles or place deer stands on utility poles. Energized lines and equipment on the poles can conduct electricity to anyone who comes in contact with them, causing shock or electrocution.

• Do not shoot at, or near, birds perching on utility lines. That goes for any type of firearm, including pistols, rifles, air rifles and shotguns.

• Do not place decoys on power lines or other utility equipment. Anything attached to a pole besides utility equip-ment can pose an obstruction and a serious hazard to electric cooperative employees.

• If a conductor is damaged and a line drops to the ground, it could start a fire.

• If you witness any damage to power equipment, call CCEC at (866) 352-9044. n

Coos-Curry Electric

O C TO B E R 2016 25

Coos-Curry Electric

By Jacob Knudsen

My thermostat is still set at the same temperature, and I haven’t done anything different in my home. Why is my electric bill so high?

This is a common question this time of year, since heating tends to be one of the largest energy consumers in the home.

Why is it more expensive to heat some months? The simple answer is when it is colder outside, your heater has to work harder to maintain the same temperature inside.

Put another way, the greater the differ-ence between the temperature outside and the thermostat setting inside, the harder your heating system will work. The harder the heater works, the more energy it uses, even if you keep your thermostat set exactly the same.

This increase is even greater for homes without enough insulation, with single-paned or aluminum-framed windows, and with a lot of air leaks around windows, doors, and plumbing and electrical boxes.

This phenomenon can be explained more scientifically by comparing average temperature and degree days.

Average TemperatureIf your energy use is higher than expected, compare the average temperature during the month to the same month last year.

For example, the average temperature in January 2016 was 51 F compared with 53 F in January 2015. In most cases, this would result in a higher heating bill in 2016 compared to 2015.

Degree DaysDegree days are a more precise measure-ment of how temperature affects your energy bill. A degree day is the differ-ence per degree between the average

temperature for a day and 65 F. If it is cooler than 65, it is a heating

degree day. If it is warmer than 65, it is a cooling degree day. For example, if the average daily temperature is 50 degrees, we would have a 15 heating degree day.

In January 2015, we only had 396 heating degree days compared to 511 in January 2016. Your heater has to work a whopping 29 percent harder to maintain the same temperature.

Keep Your Bill from Jumping When the Temperature PlummetsReducing your household energy does not need to mean wearing earmuffs in the dead of winter. Here are some simple tips to use less energy:

• Turn down your thermostat a cou-ple of degrees. Lowering your thermo-stat 2 degrees can reduce your heating bill by 4 percent or more. Set it lower when you are asleep or away to save even more.

• Block drafts. Use caulk and weather stripping to block leaks around doors, windows and outlets.

• Have your heater inspected. If you use central heat, have the system inspected annually for peak efficiency. Don’t forget to change your air filter.

• Cover your windows. Insulated window coverings can help cut heat loss. Keep coverings closed unless the sun is shining directly on the windows.

• Check your insulation. If your home is poorly insulated, add insulation. It will lower your energy bill.

• Keep track of your use. Monitor your use at www.ccec.coop to help iden-tify changes in energy consumption before they become a surprise bill.

• Remember, we are here to help you understand your energy use and make energy smart decisions. n

Why is My Electric Bill Higher This Year?Temperature fluctuations have a large effect on how hard your heating system works

4 O C TO B E R 2016

O C TO B E R 2016 5

Calculate and ConserveBy understanding your energy use, you can take charge of your electric bill. Use these formulas to calculate your energy use and projected costs.

A watt (W) is a measurement of power. Most appliances and light bulbs are labeled with the wattages they use.

A kilowatt (kW) is equivalent to 1,000 watts.

A kilowatt-hour (kWh) is a measurement of energy consumption. It is the amount of power used over time, and the basis for how electric bills are calculated.

Calculate Energy Consumption: Power x Time = Energy. For example, using a 100-watt bulb for 10 hours equals 1 kWh. (100 watts x 10 hours = 1,000 watt-hours or 1 kilowatt-hour.)

Calculate Energy Costs: Power (kW) x Time (hours of operation) x Price ($/kWh) = Cost of operation.

To find out how much it may cost to run a specific appliance, follow these five easy steps. Keep in mind you are billed per kWh, that is how much electricity you use in one hour.

1) Obtain the wattage (watts) from the appliance nameplate. Example: A quartz heater with a nameplate of 1,500 watts.

Note: If listed as kW, skip to step 3. If amps are specified, multiply amps x voltage to obtain watts.

2) Divide the number of watts by 1,000 to get kW.Example: 1,500W ÷ 1,000 = 1.5kW.

3) To find out how many kWh the appliance uses, multiply the kW x the number of hours* the appliance runs each day.

Example: The heater runs for 10 hours per day = 1.5kW x 10 hours = 15 kWh per day.

*If the appliance operates for less than one full hour, (i.e., a hair dryer), divide the number of minutes by 60. For example: a hair dryer is used 5 minutes each day, or 5 ÷ 60 = 0.083 hours per day. A 1,250-watt hair dryer = 1.25kW x 0.083 hours per day = 0.1 kWh per day.

4) To calculate the daily operating cost, multiply the kWh of the appliance by the average cost per kWh.

Example: Quartz heater daily cost = 15 kWh x $0.0941= $1.41 per day.

5) To calculate the monthly operating cost, multiply the daily cost by the number of days the appliance is used during the month.

Example: If you run the 1,500-watt quartz heater 10 hours a day, 30 days a month = 15 kWh x $0.0941 x 30 = $42.35

Remember: Calculate and Conserve! In the example used, you could conserve energy by putting the heater on a thermostat or timer to decrease the time it is used.

Blachly-Lane Electric

Turning Trash to Treasure: Blachly-Lane’s Green Power ProgramBlachly-Lane members typically have solar energy in mind when they ask about the renewable energy options available to them. Many of our sister electric co-ops around the country that have embarked on community solar installations have had mixed suc-cess when it comes to member participation and sustainable financial outcomes.

Blachly-Lane is learning from the experience of our fellow co-ops before making a financial invest-ment in solar energy. In the meantime, our Green Power Program provides members with a locally generated, cost-effective, renewable energy alterna-tive through the Coffin Butte Resource Project.

The average American produces 4.4 pounds of garbage daily, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. All that trash ends up some-where. How does Coffin Butte landfill convert the ever-accumulating garbage from 12 Oregon coun-ties—a 550,000-ton mountain of it a year—into a clean, renewable source of energy?

Decomposing landfill biomass releases methane gas. Typical landfills flare and waste the methane, or leave it to leak into the atmosphere as a potent greenhouse gas. At Coffin Butte, the methane is har-vested and used to power generators—three 16-cyl-inder and two 20-cylinder combustion engines—to produce 5.66 megawatts of power. That is enough electricity to serve about 4,000 average-size homes, or equal to that produced by 24,000 tons of coal.

Using landfill gas as a green energy source comes with the benefit of reliability. Coffin Butte produces energy 97 percent of the time, while wind produces energy 30 to 35 percent of the time. Solar energy production ebbs and flows depending on the inten-sity of the sun, serving as an unreliable source in

many parts of Oregon.Converting landfill gases into energy rather

than burning them off or leaving them to leak into the atmosphere brings environmental benefits. It reduces local ozone levels and smog formation, diminishes explosion threats and unpleasant odors, and makes the area surrounding the landfill a better place to live. The EPA states that a community that uses its landfill gases in this way “is both a steward of the environment and a leader in ensuring the well–being of its citizens.”

The Coffin Butte Resource Project is owned and operated by PNGC Power, Blachly-Lane’s coop-erative wholesale power supplier. The renewable energy portfolio available to Blachly-Lane through PNGC also includes small amounts of wind power, and the renewable energy credits the Bonneville Power Administration earns from energy-efficiency improvements they make to the federal hydro-power system.

The cost of generating clean power is slightly higher than market costs. Blachly-Lane members have the opportunity to subscribe to a fixed number of kilowatt-hours, in blocks of 1,000, at a monthly cost of $2 per 1,000 kWh. In addition to their nor-mal monthly electricity bill, subscribing members will see a separate line item charge for green power on their statements. Members can buy as many 1,000 kWh blocks as they wish to support.

Every kilowatt-hour of energy generated by the Coffin Butte Resource Project converts a mountain of trash into a valued commodity. n

Blachly-Lane members can buy green power at www.blachlylane.coop/content/green-power, or by calling (541) 688-8711.

8 O C TO B E R 2016

Copper Valley

Net Metering at CVEA

CVEA implemented the Net Metering Program (Program) in 2012 when member interest in renewable energy alternatives, like wind and solar, had increased in popularity.

Net metering allows an eligible consumer to connect an approved renewable energy generation system to the CVEA grid in order to offset their normal usage and potentially sell back excess energy to the Cooperative.

In light of the development of the Allison Creek Hydro-electric Project, CVEA felt a thorough evaluation of the Program was important.

Allison Creek is scheduled to begin generating commercial power this month (October 2016). Once the project is online, the Cooperative will have surplus hydroelectric energy in the summer months.

This circumstance will affect the non-firm purchased power rate paid to net metering consumers, as purchasing summer power from net metering participants will no longer be in the best interest of Cooperative members.

A change to the Tariff that governs the Program was required, and was approved by the CVEA Board of Directors on August 18, 2016, after following CVEA’s strict noticing policies, hosting public meetings, and providing members the opportunity for comment.

Changes to the Tariff revolve around a participant’s ability to sell excess energy to the Cooperative between the months of May and October when the Co-op already has excess power, and developing guidelines for who will be eligible to receive this benefit.

It was determined that current Program participants will be grandfathered and will continue to receive the non-firm pur-chased power rate, or average avoided cost of fuel, when appro-priate.

Additionally, the following applicability standards have been developed for those wishing to participate in net metering.1. Applications received prior to January 1, 2017, will receive

the non-firm purchased power rate when appropriate.2. The installation of approved generation systems for

applications approved prior to January 1, 2017, must be completed within five years from the date of application approval.

3. Approved applications after January 1, 2017, will not receive the non-firm purchased power rate May through October when the Association has historically produced a majority of the energy from hydro.

28 o c to b e r 2016 Copper Valley Electric

The following information provides a summary of the Program and includes recent changes to the Tariff.

EligibilityTo be eligible to participate in the Program, a consumer’s gen-eration system must produce electric energy derived from one or more renewable resources to include the following:• Solar photovoltaic or solar thermal energy• Wind energy• Biomass energy• Hydroelectric energy• Geothermal energy• Hydrokinetic energy• Ocean thermal energy

The system must be operated, and either owned or leased, by a consumer that purchases retail electric utility service from CVEA. It must also be located on the consumer’s premises, be used primarily to offset part or all of the consumer require-ments for energy, be compatible with the Cooperative’s system, and have a total nameplate capacity of no more than 25 kW.

In order to protect the member and the Cooperative, there is also a minimum liability insurance requirement that must be met prior to interconnection to the CVEA system. A standard homeowner insurance policy has been found to be adequate in most cases.

AvailabilityParticipation in the Program is generally available to eligible consumers on a first-come first-served, basis with a few specific exceptions.

There exist specific and overall system limitations that can limit the number of consumers that can participate in the Program. Specifically, the total nameplate capacity of all par-ticipants in the Program may not exceed 1.5 percent of CVEA’s average retail demand, which at present is 210 kw.

Interconnection may also be denied if a particular installa-tion is expected to result in system stability constraints or create other operational issues.

InterconnectionInterconnection requirements are outlined in CVEA’s Tariff. These requirements exist to ensure the safe and reliable opera-tion of the consumer-owned alternative generation system that will be connected to, and operated in parallel with, the CVEA system.

The process for a member to participate in the Program is straightforward and has been in place since 2012.

The complete details of eligibility, availability, and intercon-nection requirements are outlined in CVEA Tariff 4, Section 17. Anyone interested should first review Section 17 of the Tariff,

which is available on cvea.org. Members interested in installing a net metering genera-

tion system at their home or business are required to submit an application. The application is written in such a way as to ensure the consumer understands the requirements and what it takes to meet them. A trained CVEA representative is available to help the applicant as they work through this process. We cannot stress enough the importance of carefully following and complying with the application process.

Since the implementation of the program in 2012, eight CVEA members are currently generating power utilizing approved solar generation systems.

For each consumer participating in the Program, CVEA measures the net electric energy during each monthly bill-ing period. Most consumers participating in the Program will simply offset their usage. If CVEA continues to provide more energy than the consumer generates, standard CVEA rates will apply.

For current consumer installations and applications received prior to January 1, 2017, whose monthly usage is less than their monthly generation, their account will be credited with an amount derived by multiplying the kilowatt hours of net electric energy supplied back to the Cooperative by the non-firm pur-chased power rate, or average avoided cost of fuel. This rate is calculated periodically, at least every 12 months to reflect cur-rent fuel costs.

Again, new applicants with generation systems approved prior to January 1, 2017 must be completed within five years of the approval date to be considered for this benefit.

Applicants approved after January 1, 2017, will not receive the non-firm purchased power rate May through October.

For detailed information or questions on the Program, contact Darin Sauls, CVEA Manager of Engineering, at (907) 835-7028 or email sauls@cvea.org. nThis article does not contain detailed information of all of the eligibil-ity, availability, and interconnection requirements. All information can be found in the appropriate sections of the CVEA Tariff located at www.cvea.org/aboutus/tariffnumber4

o c to b e r 2016 29www.cvea.org

We asked professionals

from the staff at Ruralite magazine to judge PSREC’s 2016 Cover Photo Contest, and award the top photo entries.

Thank you to all our

participants, and

congratulations to this year’s

winners.

...and the winners are...

Plumas-Sierra REC

Clockwise from top left: “Fishing Into Sunset,” by Bob Marshak; “Mt. Lassen Wildflowers,” by Ryland West; “Small Waterfall at Lakes Basin,” by Greg Heikkinen; “Wildflowers and Corn Lily,” by Bob Marshak; “Fiery Pre-Sunset,” by Bob Marshak; “Red Breasted Sap Sucker in Oak Tree,” by Molly Glucklich.

8 O C TO B E R 2016

Valley ElectricLooking Ahead - Leading by Example

4 O C TO B E R 2016

Recreation Center in Pahrump’s FutureWith Sale of 230 kV LinesA first-class community recreation center will be in Pahrump’s future if the mem-bership of Valley Electric Association, Inc., follows the lead of the VEA Board of Directors and approves the sale of the 230-kilovolt trans-mission system to GridLiance Holdco, L.P., which is backed by Blackstone Energy Partners.

“That’s a promise,” says Thomas H. Husted, CEO of Valley Electric Association. “If the transmission system sells, we will have a unique oppor-tunity to build something spe-cial for the community. We want to do it right, and we want to build it fast.”

Husted envisions the rec-reation center to be similar in size and scope to YMCAs and other such centers in many communities the size of Pahrump. It likely would contain an indoor swimming pool, a fitness center, rock walls, a splash park and meet-ing rooms.

“We already have the land,” says Husted, gestur-ing to the acreage adjacent to Valley headquarters on Highway 372, just west of the administration building. The land already has been appraised at between $3 mil-lion and $5 million. Proceeds from the transmission sale

would leave approximately $5 million for the structure and facilities for a total of between $8-10 million when completed.

It will take 66.6 percent of the membership to approve the sale or about 11,500 votes. Membership voting began Sept. 14 and continues through mid-October

If the measure passes, Husted says a blue-ribbon panel from the community would be chosen to make suggestions and gather pub-lic input on the project. The committee would then have to look at what could be built for that amount. If it’s not enough for what is needed, a commu-nity-wide fundraising project might be considered to raise the remainder of the funds for construction, maintenance and operation.

The $8-10 million that would come from VEA land and the sale of transmis-sion assets might be enough for what the public needs, says Husted. “It certainly would provide the basis for a very nice facility, one we all could be proud of. But it’s very possible that the public would support some-thing larger and nicer than what our contribution would build. We’ll just have to wait and see.” n

Why vote yes?Our VEA member-owners will receive: a 9.9% rate reduction a Long-term rate stability a Cash premium ($579 per member) a General capital credit retirement

Your Cooperative will: a Be able to pay down debt a Reduce operating costs a Create a new revenue source

Our community will: a Receive a $10 million community

rec center

For more information, please visit www.vea.coop/content/230kv.Why vote yes?

Our VEA member-owners will receive: a 9.9% rate reduction a Long-term rate stability a Cash premium ($579 per member) a General capital credit retirement

Your Cooperative will: a Be able to pay down debt a Reduce operating costs a Create a new revenue source

Our community will: a Receive a $10 million community

rec center

For more information, please visit www.vea.coop/content/230kv.

VOTING DETAILS The voting period runs through Oct. 14.

Member-owners can vote in one of the following ways:

• Paper Ballot • Online at www.vea.coop • At the VEA office, 800 Highway 372 • By Proxy

O C TO B E R 2016 29

www.otecc.com

Oregon Trail Electric

Recognizing When Things Go RightBy Jeff Anderson, OTEC Manager of Loss Control

The dangers created by society’s need for high-voltage electricity are complex. Endless miles of energized lines strung across interconnected systems that span nearly all of North America create a potential public hazard that must be present in the minds of community members.

To spread the message about the dangers of electricity, power providers deliver a coordinated set of simple messages that have now become part of our social psyche. These messages are delivered at the grassroots level within our communities, at our schools, to our emergency responders and many other groups.

Often, it is difficult to measure the effectiveness of this effort. As an industry, we have a well-established machine for reviewing and analyzing accidents, incidents and near misses, then moving forward with lessons learned and adjusted methods that result in increased safety.

What we seem to notice less is how often things go right—how often Occupational Safety and Health Administration rules save lives, and how often our industry-wide community outreach effort averts what would otherwise be catastrophic disasters for individuals, families and organizations.

Two specific incidents that recently occurred on Oregon Trail Electric Cooperative’s small piece of the electrical grid brought this line of thinking into focus. They provide a perfect opportunity to remind community members that the effort electric utility companies put into keeping them safe is working.

The first incident involved a dump truck that contacted an energized wire. The driver, having just received electrical safety training from his local electric utility, knew that because his vehicle wasn’t on fire, waiting inside was his safest course of action. He waited for a lineman to de-energize the line, then exited safely.

The second incident occurred fewer than five weeks later and, again, involved a dump truck that contacted an energized line. Because this incident involved higher voltage, the front tires of the truck immediately began to smoke as electricity made its way to the earth through the steel-belt reinforcement in the front tires. Electricity flowing to the earth started a fire in the dry grass surrounding the tires, and quickly spread under the front of the truck.

Although the driver saw smoke bubbling from beneath the

front of his truck, he was unaware he had contacted a power line until other workers on the job site—yelling over the loud hissing sound coming from the front tires—told him. As the driver opened the truck door and began to exit the vehicle, workers on site shouted instructions that likely saved his life.

They told him to jump from the vehicle rather than step. The driver listened, jumped and moved away from the vehicle to a safe location. Jumping rather than stepping as he exited kept the driver from becoming part of the path that electricity followed to get to the earth.

Within seconds of his successful exit from the truck, superheated air created by the flow of electricity in the front tires expanded enough to explode each wheel assembly and turned them—including bearings, breaks and lug nuts—into large projectiles. The driver’s side wheel landed 23 feet from its original location.

It is important to take the time to recognize when things go right, and to make sure people know their utility companies make a diligent effort to keep them safe.

After considering the incredibly positive outcome for each of these incidents, this effort appears very effective. n

Superheated air created by the flow of electricity in the front tires expanded enough to explode each wheel assembly and turned them—including bearings, breaks and lug nuts—into large projectiles. The driver’s side wheel landed 23 feet from its original location as part of the truck.

28 O C TO B E R 2016

Clatskanie PUD

Make Advanced Power Strips Work for YouMany Clatskanie PUD customers have recently received advanced power strips from the PUD through its partnership with Efficiency Services Group. Two models have been distributed: Embertec and Tricklestar.

There are several key points to remember when setting up and learning to use the strips. CPUD Conservation & Key Accounts Lead Brian Fawcett shares the following information and pointers:

• Smart power strips are designed to reduce standby power losses from audio visual equipment and provide surge protection.

• Start by reading the power strip’s instruction manual. While tedious, it

could save time in the long run.• Power-saving sockets are used for

devices that do not need standby power, such as Blu-ray players, DVD players, TVs and amplifiers.

• Do not plug lamps, photo frames, or audio-visual peripherals into power-saving sockets unless you want them to only be on when watching TV.

• “Always on” sockets are used for cable/satellite boxes, DVRs or anything else that needs to run in the background to stay up-to-date.

• Sensors detect infrared and/or movement within a room to keep devices on while being used.

• Consumers should place the sensor

where infrared signals and/or movement can be picked up.

• A sensor will blink if it is about to turn off power to electronics.

• Infrared use—or motion-sensing models—will extend operation time.

• Embertec strip users need to push the “volume up” button to activate it to turn on the device. With the Tricklestar model, any button will work to activate it.

• Time extensions can be added by holding down the button on the sensor for a certain amount of time: 5 seconds for Tricklestar, and 1 second for Embertec. Consult instruction manuals for specifics. n

Replacing your conventional power strips with advanced power strips can help reduce the electricity wasted when electronic devices are idle. These power strips are a convenient and low-cost way to save. Clatskanie PUD has partnered with Efficiency Services Group to show you how to use these strips effectively and efficiently.

O C TO B E R 2016 29

Clatskanie PUD has partnered with Efficiency Services Group to provide energy-efficiency programs to the PUD’s residential and commercial customers.

ESG is going door to door within the PUD’s service area to offer several energy- and money-saving measures.

This program is offered as a benefit for Clatskanie PUD customers at no cost to them or the PUD. It is funded through the Bonneville Power Administration’s conservation and energy-efficiency program. Clatskanie PUD works in conjunction with BPA’s programs to provide valuable resources to customers to help them save energy and ultimately lower their electric bills.

Clatskanie PUD is proud to be a resource for customers to learn more about using electricity efficiently. That not only benefits consumers by saving money each month in energy costs, it reduces the need to build additional power plants. Using the power resources we currently have in an effective and efficient manner is a good way to help keep power costs down.

Clatskanie PUD offers several energy-saving programs through rebates and incentives. Programs include rebates for appliances, ductless heat pumps, heat pump water heaters in conjunction with local retailers, an LED bulb coupon program, and home weatherization rebates for windows and insulation.

For more information about current programs, visit www.clatskaniepud.com, or contact the PUD’s energy-efficiency professionals at conservation@clatskaniepud.com or (503) 728-2163.

The partnership with ESG is one way CPUD can effectively provide additional energy-efficiency services in a convenient manner. The direct install program that ESG is taking straight to the PUD’s customers’ doors provides low-flow, high-

performance showerheads and advanced power strips for residential customers, and web-enabled programmable thermostats for commercial customers.

ESG has added Snapshot—an energy efficiency audit—to the home visits. Using specialized software and an iPad, the ESG representative can provide on-the-spot recommendations for other energy-efficiency programs that could benefit the consumer.

During the visit, the ESG representa-tives can install the high-performance showerheads in your home and set up the advanced power strips on your enter-

tainment centers. You also will receive a brief tutorial on the use of the advanced power strips.

ESG representatives are trained energy-efficiency professionals, and are committed to helping people save energy and money. They will have Clatskanie PUD logos on their vehicles and wear ID badges with both the ESG and Clatskanie PUD logos on it.

If you have any questions or want to verify that the person at your door is with ESG and Clatskanie PUD, call ESG at (888) 883-9879 or the CPUD office at (503) 728-2163.

Clatskanie PUD Continues to Partner With ESG

Efficiency Services Group Representative Brant Peters installs an advanced power strip in the home of a Clatskanie PUD customer.

Fact or Fiction: Don’t be FooledSmall changes in habits net big savings in efficiency

By Abby Berry

We have heard the old wives’ tales: eating carrots will greatly improve your eyesight, cracking your knuckles leads to arthritis, watching too much TV will harm your vision.

There also are misconceptions about home energy use. Don’t be fooled by common energy myths.

Myth: The higher the thermostat setting, the faster the home will heat (or cool).Many people think that walking into a chilly room and raising the thermostat to 85 degrees will heat the room more quickly. This is not true.

Thermostats direct a home’s HVAC system to heat or cool to a certain temperature. Drastically adjust-ing the thermostat setting will not make a difference in how quickly you feel warmer. The same is true for cooling. The Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78 degrees during sum-mer months and 68 degrees during winter months.

Myth: Opening the oven door to check on a dish does not really waste energy.While it can be tempting to check the progress of that dish you are cooking in the oven, opening the oven door wastes energy.

Every time the oven door is opened, the tem-perature inside is reduced by as much as 25 degrees, delaying the progress of your dish. More impor-tantly, it costs you more money.

If you need to check the progress of a dish, try using the oven light instead.

Myth: Ceiling fans keep your home cool while you are away. Many people think this is true, but ceiling fans cool people, not rooms. Ceiling fans circulate room air, but do not change the temperature.

A running ceiling fan in an empty room adds to your electricity use. Remember to turn off fans when you are away and reduce your energy use.

Myth: Reducing my energy use is too expensive. Many consumers believe that reducing energy use requires expensive upfront costs, like buying new, more efficient appliances or making construction upgrades to an older home.

The truth is that consumers who make small

changes to their energy-efficiency habits—such as turning off lights when not in use, sealing air leaks and using a programmable thermostat—can see a reduction in energy consumption.

Energy efficiency does not have to be difficult. Focus on small changes to save big. To learn more about ways to save energy, visit www.gladesec.com or call (863) 946-6200. n

Glades ElectricNeighbors Working for Neighbors

26 O C TO B E R 2016

Vampires Lurk in Your HomeVanquish energy drains from devices eager to take a bite out of your wallet

By Brian Sloboda

Vampires have frightened people for generations. The fangs, the wings, the immor-tality: It’s scary stuff.

Though that’s all legend—a subject for movies and Halloween costumes—a dif-ferent breed of vampire lurks in your home right now.

These vampires do not drink blood. Instead, they consume electricity.

An energy vampire—also known as a phantom or para-sitic load—is any device that consumes electricity when turned off.

These originate with elec-tronic devices that provide the modern-day conveniences we love, but also waste energy and cost us money.

Vampire loads can be found in almost every room of a home, though a favorite

spot is the entertainment center. When the television is turned off, it isn’t really off. It is sitting there, waiting patiently for someone to press the on button of the remote—and waiting uses energy. TVs also use energy to remember channel line-ups, language preferences and the time.

VCRs, DVD players, DVRs, and cable or satellite boxes also use energy when off.

The problem is significant. According to a study by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, the average home loses 8 percent of its monthly energy consumption to these energy vampires.

A full 75 percent of the power used to run home elec-tronics is consumed when those appliances are turned off, according to the U.S.

Department of Energy.According to the National

Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the average elec-tric co-op residential member consumes roughly 13,900 kilowatt-hours a year. If 8 percent of this power is con-sumed when electronics are turned off, the average home wastes 1,112 kWh annually.

The good news is—unlike their TV and movie counter-parts—a sharp stake is not needed to kill off these vam-pires. To eliminate the power consumption of an energy vampire, simply unplug the device or plug it into a power strip and use the power strip’s switch to eliminate electricity to everything plugged into it.

Power strips work like an extension of the wall outlet. They cut all power to plugs completely when they are switched off.

There is always a catch. Some devices use standby power to make life more con-venient. If you unplug your television or cable/satellite receiver box, what happens?

When plugged back in, the TV or set top box usually will

Common Home Energy VampiresXX TVsXX StereosXX VCRs, DVD players/DVRsXX Cable/satellite boxesXX ComputersXX Battery chargers

Gulf Coast

Typical Power Consumption of Household Items (In Watts)

Device On Standby Off

40-inch LCD TV 200 0 1-3

42-inch Plasma TV 240-320 0 1-30

DVD player 13 10 2.3

Stereo 123 0 23.4

Xbox 360 173 168 2.2

Nintendo Wii 17 10 1

Power tool battery charger 33.7 4.2 0

Coffee maker 1,100 70 0.8

Courtesy of E Source

28 O C TO B E R 2016

have to run its initial setup program. Depending on the device, it could take up to 20 minutes for channels to be recognized or for the user to reset preferences, which is not something most are willing to do every day.

But numerous devices in the home can be unplugged easily and safely, or plugged into a power strip without causing any inconvenience.

Computer equipment—such as printers, scanners, desktop computers and broadband modems—can be unplugged without harm.

Cellphone, tool and other battery chargers also should be unplugged when not in

use. Even though the charger is not charging anything, it still draws power.

A newer device, a smart strip, is finding its way onto store shelves.

Smart power strips allow you to plug devices into a specially marked section of the power strip so they will still have power when turned off. Other devices that can be turned off safely are plugged into the rest of the strip.

This allows you to turn off parts of a home enter-tainment system—such as the stereo, DVD player or home theater audio system—without losing the ability to record programs to a DVR or

having to reprogram the tele-vision every time you want to watch a show.

For devices that cannot be turned off, consumers should look for Energy Star-certified devices or ask the salesper-son about a device’s standby power consumption.

There can be big differ-ences in power consumption between manufacturers, and sometimes even between models from the same manufacturer.

As in the movies, it is impossible to kill off all of the energy vampires in your home. But every energy vampire van-quished means that much less of a bite out of your wallet. n

O C TO B E R 2016 29