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Color-Coded Conservation System
Our color-coded conservation system consists of four levels: Green, Yellow, Orange, and Red. These levels offer specific conservation tips based on the daily color and are closely related to the expected energy demand. Most days are Green Days, which prompt everyday conservation actions. When temperatures drop and the grid faces a higher strain, Yellow Days are called. Yellow Days encourage more energy conservation during peak demand hours, which can be found on our website. Orange Alerts and Red Alerts are only issued if the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) declares grid reliability to be at risk.
During winter, especially on colder days, energy demand spikes as people use heaters. That's where Cam the chameleon comes in! Cam is our new energy-saving friend who partners with CPS Energy to deliver the color of the day and energy savings tips through our website and social media. Cam changes colors to match the daily color, making it easy to understand the energy demand and necessary conservation actions. Cam also shares color-specific tips for saving money on energy bills and supporting grid reliability:
- Green Days:
- Set your thermostat to 68 degrees.
- Run ceiling fans clockwise to force warm air down.
- Open shades and blinds to let in sunlight.
- Turn off unnecessary lights.
- Unplug electronics when not in use to avoid phantom energy.
- Yellow Days:
- Continue Green Day conservation measures.
- Check cpsenergy.com/ConserveAndSave and our social media for peak demand times.
- Adjust thermostats a few degrees lower if health allows.
- Avoid using large appliances like ovens, washers, dryers, and dishwashers.
- Charge electric vehicles (EVs) at night after 10 p.m.
- Orange and Red Alerts:
These alerts are issued only when ERCOT declares grid reliability at risk. During these alerts, it's crucial to limit power usage and check our website and social media for updates.
CPS Energy also reminds customers to sign up for Energy Alerts, follow the outage map and social media for updates, and use Manage My Account to view energy usage and access more savings tips.
Thanks to Cam's monocular vision, he focuses on both conservation and helping you save money! Visit our website for more tips on energy conservation, emergency preparedness, residential programs, and rebates.
Year-End Fundraiser
We have a small request. Our work is supported by readers like you. You are essential in keeping San Antonians informed and empowered, and we need your help to make a greater impact. If you value the San Antonio Report's coverage, please support our year-end fundraiser and help us raise ,000 by Dec. 31. Currently, your donation is doubled due to a generous local donor. So, what will you do?
