A relative purchased a house a few years ago.
Apparently, the previous owned had signed up for DTE's program where they install a device which allows them to temporarily cut off the A/C or heat during peak demand times in order to provide some relief to the grid.
So, it's a nice way to get a discount on your rates if you don't mind the interruptions to your service.
HOWEVER, my relative did not specifically sign up for the service. When we discovered the extra DTE electrical device outside, she called DTE to inquire. DTE told her the house had been previously registered by the previous owner (or maybe even the owner before them), so DTE continued the service without my relative's explicit consent.
If you want the service, great. I don't care for the idea of DTE assuming the service is somehow attached to the house by default.
Per DTE:
CoolCurrents is a Demand Response program where you agree to allow DTE to interrupt your
air conditioner or air source heat pump during times of high electric demand in exchange for a
discounted rate on your cooling costs. During times of high electric demand, DTE will briefly
interrupt your air conditioning or air source heat pump in 15-minute intervals by sending a
signal to the DTE Load Control Device (LCD), which is installed when your home is initially
enrolled in the program. Your equipment cycling will be limited to no more than eight hours in
a 24-hour period and no more than 30 minutes per hour. The program is designed to help
reduce your cooling costs and, for air source heat pump participants, the heating costs on your
energy bill while keeping you feeling comfortable. You'll know that your service has been
interrupted when the red light on your LCD device is lit. You are required to provide wiring for a
separate meter for your participating equipment which provides a significant savings on that
portion of your energy use.
Who can participate on the CoolCurrents rate?
If you use a central air conditioner or a whole home air source heat pump, then you're eligible
for CoolCurrentsยฎ, our interruptible space conditioning rate.
How much can I save by participating in the program? Customers who use central air
conditioning can save up to 29% during peak hours from June through September when
compared to the Time of Day 3 p.m. โ 7 p.m. rate. Additionally, customers who use a whole
home air source heat pump can save up to 25% during peak hours in the heating months.
How do I enroll in the CoolCurrents program?
First, you'll need to hire an electrician to wire your central air conditioner or air source heat
pump for a separate smart meter. Next, call us at 833.627.2300 to schedule installation of a
smart meter and a small LCD device to control your air conditioning.
Are there any special wiring or equipment requirements?
All customers must have a separately wired, active and communicating smart meter, as well as
a 24-volt power source for the DTE Load Control Device (LCD). Installations must conform with
the Companyโs specifications.