Electricity systems are designed to cater for peak usage or demand even though this occurs for only a few days a year. The peak demand in the SWIS is steadily increasing, meaning that network capacity to meet the peaks is diminishing.
We are responding to this challenge with initiatives that target the reduction of peak demand as well as the broader conservation and efficient usage of energy. In addition to deferring capital expenditure on new network capacity, these initiatives can also reduce overall energy consumption leading to a decrease in damaging green house gas emissions.
Working with customers and retailers, we are thinking differently about energy usage. For example: shifting energy usage to off-peak times, agreements to reduce demand at peak times upon request, substituting sources of generation, installing more efficient equipment, switching fuels, direct load control and energy efficiency education programs.
Initiatives such as Green Town and Beat the Peak are helping Western Power manage peak demand and extend the life of existing network assets.
Page update on 28 July 2009
