Absolutely not!

Demand Response programs like PSE Flex are not the same as rolling blackouts or power outages. In fact, PSE Flex programs help prevent outages by reducing strain on the electricity grid during peak times. By voluntarily adjusting your energy use, you help keep the grid stable and avoid the need to temporarily activate expensive, carbon-intensive energy plants.

Rolling blackouts are a reactive solution that happens when the grid is overwhelmed and can no longer handle the demand. On the other hand, demand response takes a proactive approach by encouraging people to adjust their energy use before problems arise, helping to keep the grid stable and avoid those emergency measures.

Not true!

PSE Flex is designed to be minimally intrusive to your lifestyle. Even the simplest of energy-saving actions, like turning off unnecessary lights, can make a big difference. You always have the flexibility to participate as much or as little as you are comfortable with, without being penalized for inaction. With modern technology, such as smart thermostats, you can participate automatically with very little effort on your part.

Actually, it can!

Participating in PSE Flex programs can lead to significant savings in several ways:

• Cash back: Our incentivized program offers financial rewards just for joining, with additional incentives the longer you stay in the program.
• Lower bills: By reducing your energy consumption during Flex events, you can lower your overall energy use. This reduction in consumption can help lower your monthly energy bills, as you are using less energy overall.
• Lower infrastructure costs: By helping us manage peak demand more effectively, you contribute to reducing the need for costly upgrades to power plants and transmission lines. These long-term savings help minimize rate increases for all customers.

Not at all!

Your HVAC system, water heater, and appliances will remain safe if you participate according to our recommendations. With our automated programs, adjustments made during Flex events are minor and temporary, staying within safe operating ranges. Our goal is to help you reduce energy use without affecting the performance or lifespan of your home systems.

Actually, it does!

Reducing energy use during peak periods through PSE Flex programs plays a significant role in lowering greenhouse gas emissions. With the widespread implementation of PSE Flex programs, millions of metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions will be avoided.

Additionally, integrating clean energy sources like solar and wind supports our PSE Flex programs by creating a more resilient and sustainable power system.

Not quite!

While demand response is often associated with winter due to increased heating use, it is important year-round, especially with the increased installation of air conditioners in the Pacific Northwest. Extreme weather events can strain the grid in both summer and winter. PSE Flex programs help manage this by encouraging reduced consumption during peak times, ensuring grid stability and supporting environmental sustainability throughout the year.

Not true!

We never require a long-term commitment for any of our PSE Flex programs. Participation is always voluntary, giving you the flexibility to opt in or out based on your preferences and needs. This ensures that you can adjust your participation according to your own schedule and circumstances.

Actually, it’s a long-term strategy!

Demand Response, including PSE Flex programs, is a sustainable, long-term approach designed to create a more reliable and efficient energy grid. By managing peak demand and reducing the need for additional power generation, PSE Flex programs contribute to a more stable and environmentally friendly energy system over time.

Not at all!

PSE Flex programs are designed to have minimal impact on your daily life. Adjustments made during Flex events are typically minor and intended to be as seamless as possible, so you don’t have to make significant lifestyle changes to participate effectively.

Not true!

PSE only collects the basic information necessary to connect your enrolled devices to your account, but it is solely used to optimize energy use during Flex events. We take your privacy seriously. All data is transmitted securely through encrypted connections, ensuring that your personal information remains confidential.

No, they can vary!

You have flexibility in how you participate. With Flex Rewards, you don’t need any technology—just take small actions to conserve energy that you’re comfortable with. If you prefer a more automated approach, you can easily enroll your smart thermostat, electric vehicle, home battery, or water heater and participate with minimal extra effort.