Did you know SCEC offers incentives – also known as rebates – on more than 40 items in eight different categories? From LED lighting to an upgraded HVAC system, members can save with energy-efficient items that will continue to yield electricity savings for years to come.

While it may seem odd to reward members for using less of the product we want you to purchase (electricity), SCEC and Dairyland Power Cooperative, our wholesale power provider, want to balance comfort and convenience with keeping electricity rates stable and affordable.

The time of day electricity is purchased will ultimately affect rates. If energy is used wisely throughout the day, SCEC and Dairyland can reduce the price they pay for electricity when prices are at their peak due to high demand. The Electric$ense incentive program rewards members for qualified purchases that help them use energy wisely.

The Electric$ense incentive program has been in place for years but is reviewed annually to ensure it’s including the right incentives and latest technology. New in 2021:

• The incentive for 75-99 gallon electric water heaters increased from $125 to $150. The water heater must be enrolled in SCEC’s energy-saving strategy. You can save even more by purchasing your water heater through us! Contact ms@scecnet.net or call 715-796-5612 for more details.

• A no horsepower minimum for variable frequency drives (VFD) means all pool pumps with a VFD qualify for an incentive.

Receiving your incentive

• Just because you find a sale on a refrigerator or clothes washer does not mean it (or other items) will qualify for the Electric$ense incentive program. Prior to buying anything, visit scecnet.net to review the incentive criteria for the item(s). Forms are located at scecnet.net à Rebates & Programs à Rebates> or look for look for the Electric$ense logo on our homepage or mobile site.
• Proper paperwork and forms must be submitted within three months of purchase or installation, depending on the item;

• Incentives are only available while funds are available, so submit paperwork as soon as possible after purchase;

• Each incentive form has additional details, which should be read prior to submitting paperwork;

• For items that require an ENERGY STAR designation, you can visit www.energystar.gov/productfinder to search for qualifying products.

• Rebates less than $500 are credited to your SCEC electric bill. 
  SCEC issues a CHECK is for rebates $500 or more.

Year-round energy-saving tips

It is important to be mindful of daily energy use and consider adjusting certain habits to avoid higher costs later. You do not have to make additional purchases to use energy wisely. Some tips include:

• Program your thermostat to maximize energy savings. Setting your thermostat one degree lower when heating or one degree higher when cooling can reduce energy use by up to 5 percent;
• Wash with cold water. Washing clothes in warm water instead of hot can cut a load’s energy use in half; using cold water will save even more;

• Fill ‘er up! Only run the dishwasher or clothes washer with full loads. The device will use the same amount of electricity and water, regardless of the size of the load, so get the most clean for your buck;  

• Air dry dishes. This step can cut a dishwasher’s energy use by up to 50 percent.

• Substitute LEDs for conventional light bulbs. Lighting can amount to up to 12 percent of monthly energy use; LED bulbs can cut lighting costs by 75 percent;

• Unplug appliances and electronics when not in use. Small appliances and electronics use energy even when not in use. When powered on, game consoles, televisions and similar electronics are responsible for up to 12 percent of a home’s energy use.

If you have questions regarding your usage, contact Member Services Director Jeff Wahlquist: ms@scecnet.net or 715-796-5612. Office hours are Monday – Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.