The fast-growing use of large air conditioners in more and more homes has had considerable effect on electricity demand, creating the high peak demand on days of extreme temperatures.
To meet that peak demand, Western Power has to build expensive infrastructure. Much of the infrastructure's capacity lays idle for the rest of the year. The cost of this has an effect on the community, the environment and the end user - you.
Western Power is researching ways to work with the community to use electricity more effectively and efficiently. As a responsible business, we are also seeking to conserve our natural resources while still meeting customer demand.
Peak demand is the difference between the electricity we typically use, and what we use on a day of extreme summer temperature. That difference is an issue, because electricity infrastructure must be built to meet peak demand, which means most of the capacity lies idle for the remainder of the year.
Page update on 4 April 2008
