District ready to save energy

Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) announced today that Cascade Union Elementary School District in Anderson is now the largest North State participant in the utility's SmartAC<0x2122> program, which helps spare the environment and prevent rotating outages during periods of peak summer demand.

PG&E has installed 120 energy-saving SmartAC<0x2122> thermostats and load control receivers in the district's five elementary schools and the district office in Anderson. The devices and installation are free under the program.

PG&E's voluntary SmartAC<0x2122> program helps California avoid power interruptions by signaling air conditioners to reduce their electricity use slightly during periods of peak energy demand, without sacrificing customers' comfort or control. When multiplied by hundreds of thousands of air conditioners throughout the state, this program can have a tremendous cumulative impact to help reduce the possibility of system overload.

While many schools may not qualify for the program because they generally do not use much electricity during peak summer hours, Cascade Union schools are year-round and their electric usage patterns made the district a good candidate. The SmartAC season runs May 1 to Oct. 31.

"Our participation in this program not only confirms our commitment to be a green school district and help protect the environment, but it also demonstrates our commitment to preparing our students to be responsible citizens" said district Superintendent Wes Smith. "We encourage all Anderson community members - business owners and residents alike - to join us."

Schools that enroll receive a "thank you" payment of $25 for each SmartAC thermostat installed. Cascade Union will receive $3,000 for the 120 devices.

For more information, visit www.pge.com/about/.