About Your Local Electric Cooperative

Colorado Counties Served:
Chaffee, Custer, Fremont, Lake and Saguache

Year Organized
1940

Meters Served
15,003

San de Cristo Electric Feature Story

November 2026

Ways to Save

Small timing changes and available rebates, programs can save on energy bills

As November settles in and temperatures drop, your HVAC system is about to become one of the hardest-working appliances in your home, which makes now a great time to ensure it is optimized and ready for winter.

Start with something simple: check your filters regularly, since a clogged or dirty filter restricts airflow and can force your system to work longer and harder than necessary; replace filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. It’s also important to make sure furniture, curtains, rugs, and other household items are not blocking supply or return vents, since clear vents help your system run more efficiently.

If you have a heat pump, give your outdoor unit extra attention this time of year by clearing away fallen leaves, limbs, and other debris that can restrict airflow, and always follow the manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations. If you have a traditional central air conditioning system, the outdoor unit may sit idle during the winter, but it’s still a good idea to keep it free of debris.

Finally, take greater control of your energy use by managing your thermostat proactively. There’s no need to heat an empty house, so lowering the temperature when you’re asleep or away can help reduce energy use. Even better, a programmable or smart thermostat can make those adjustments automatically, helping you save energy with less effort.

PROGRAMS

SDCEA has three pilot programs designed to reduce peak demand and help you manage your energy use. You can apply for:

Water Heater Control: If you have an electric water heater, you may be eligible to participate in an incentive program that controls when your electric water heater is used.
Residential Battery Storage Program: Lower your demand charges and use solar generation more effectively.
EV Vehicle Charging: Have an electric vehicle? This program shifts EV charging to off-peak hours and helps you save.

REBATES

Apply for rebates from SDCEA to improve energy efficiency and reduce energy use:

Heat Pump Rebates: Heat pumps are an attractive option for homeowners looking to improve energy efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and save on heating and cooling costs. Their ability to provide both heating and cooling makes them a versatile choice for various climates and home types.
Electric Water Heater Rebate: Interested in replacing your electric water heater? There are incentives to do so now — don’t wait for it to break at an inconvenient time.
Appliance Rebates: Upgrade your home appliances for efficiency. Eligible appliances include clothes dryers, refrigerators and freezers, cooktops, smart thermostats, and more.

ON-BILL REPAYMENT PROGRAM

Pay for home energy improvements over time, right on your monthly utility bill. Our On-Bill Repayment Program makes energy efficiency and electrification upgrades more accessible for homeowners, businesses, and agricultural producers.

PEAK HOURS

SDCEA’s new rate structure encourages the wise use of electricity. During peak hours, you can save money on your bill keeping the following tips in mind:

PEAK HOURS TIPS

Peak hours are 5-9 p.m. Monday-Saturday, excluding Sundays and major holidays.
Shift, stagger and save. Small timing changes can lower your peak demand and help manage your bill.
Avoid running major appliances at the same time during peak hours.
Space laundry and dishwasher loads by 15 minutes.
Delay or use delay-start settings on appliances to spread out use or start using after peak hours.
Stacking appliance use for 1 hour can impact your monthly demand charge.

ASSISTANCE

If you need bill pay assistance, energy efficiency and weatherization help, or heating system repair or replacement, please find information on our website, myelectric.coop/energy-efficiency/energy-assistance/ or scan the QR code below to learn more.