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Dominion Looks To Extend Two Energy Conservation Programs

By: Elliott Francis // September 10, 2012
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One of the Dominion energy programs turned residents' air conditioners off and on during peak hours.
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One of the Dominion energy programs turned residents' air conditioners off and on during peak hours.

Dominion Virginia Power is asking state regulators for permission to expand two energy conservation programs.

Officials with the Richmond-based energy provider say they've asked the Virginia State Corporation Commission to extend their Smart Cooling Rewards program.

The program reduces electricity usage at peak times by turning customers' air conditioning units off and on for certain hours during periods of high electricity demand during the summer. Participating customers get a $40 incentive after each summer cooling season.

A spokesperson with the utility says the program has reduced peak demand by nearly 60 megawatts of power. That's equal to the output of a small generating station and the amount of power used by approximately 15,000 homes.

The company also asked regulators to extend a program that offers home audits and repairs for qualifying low-income residents.

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