Seattle-area utilities are steadily widening programs that let them nudge, and in some cases directly control, smart thermostats and water heaters during the hours when the grid is under the most strain. Utility officials say these tools can trim peak demand, cut the risk of blackouts and save ratepayers from footing the bill for new power plants or bigger transmission lines. Early pilots, though, show a split response, with some customers eager to trade a little control for savings and others bristling at the idea of anyone else deciding when their living room cools down.
According to The Seattle Times, utilities including Seattle City Light, Puget Sound Energy, Snohomish County PUD and Tacoma Power are testing or rolling out time-of-use rates, direct load control…..