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Demand-side management: An underused tool for conserving electricity

Journal Article · · Environment; (USA)
OSTI ID:6283657
 [1]
  1. Oak Ridge National Laboratory, TN (USA)

During the past few years, some US utilities have adopted demand-side management (DSM) programs that improve the efficiency and timing of customer electricity use. Such programs include the promotion of new lighting systems in office buildings, more efficient appliances in homes, heat pumps that recover waste heat in factories, and direct control of electricity-intensive equipment, such as air conditioners, at critical times of peak energy demand. These utilities recognize the benefits of focusing on electric-energy services rather than on electricity as a product. This paper discusses past progress and future potential; suggestions for the future (know the market, more research and development, acquire energy resources, electricity-pricing strategies, update rate regulations, and integrate resource planning); and federal actions which encourage DSM including wholesale contracts, competitive bidding, federal electric utilities, technology transfer, and collecting energy information.

OSTI ID:
6283657
Journal Information:
Environment; (USA), Journal Name: Environment; (USA) Vol. 32:1; ISSN 0013-9157; ISSN ENVTA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English