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Tag: energy efficiency

Free Virtual Solar Workshop

Is solar right for you? Join Trico’s experts virtually as they answer your rooftop solar questions BEFORE you sign with a contractor. Register here.

To ask any immediate solar related questions, email us at sunwatts@trico.coop or call us at 520-744-2944, ext. 1524.

 

Energy Saving Tips for Fall


Energy Saving Tips for Fall

September 1, 2024

As the weather gets cooler, these tips will help you save money without sacrificing your family’s comfort.

Seal air leaks: Check for gaps or cracks around windows and exterior doors. Replace older caulk around windows with new siliconized caulk. Seal gaps around doors with weatherstripping and door sweeps.

Ensure insulation: Hire a qualified contractor to ensure that the walls and ceiling of your home is insulated according to recommended levels for your area. Install insulation as needed.

Maintain your heating system: Hire a qualified technician to inspect and clean your heating system before the start of winter. A dirty furnace filter can restrict air flow, making your heating system work harder to keep you comfortable. Replace your furnace filter regularly throughout the season. Also, make sure registers and vents are not blocked by rugs or furniture, which can also restrict air flow and reduce comfort.

Adjust your thermostat: Adjusting the thermostat is one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce your energy bills. Lower temperatures to save energy at night or when no one is at home. To optimize savings and convenience, install a programmable thermostat. You can set it to automatically adjust temperatures based on your preferences and schedule. Newer smart models offer advanced features, such as remote control.

Check your chimney: Your chimney is an outlet for the warm air generated by your furnace. If your fireplace is not in use, keep the damper closed to prevent any warm air from going up the chimney. Check the seal on the flue damper and make sure that it is as snug as possible. Consider installing tempered glass doors and a heat exchange system that blows warm air back inside.

Get a home energy audit: Autumn is the perfect time to schedule a home energy audit. Your auditor will inspect your home and run a series of tests. You’ll receive a customized set of improvement recommendations that, when implemented, will reduce your energy bills and improve the comfort of your home all year long.

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CEO Column: New BESS System Saves Members Money


CEO Column: Trico’s New BESS Saves Members Money

August 1, 2024

On July 2, 2024, Trico hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of the Sahuarita Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), a key part of our ongoing efforts to provide our Members with cost-effective and sustainable energy solutions.

The event marked a significant milestone, supported by a $55.2 million award from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) under the Powering Affordable Clean Energy (PACE) program. Sierra Southwest Cooperatives Inc., which develops energy resources for Arizona’s nonprofit electric co-ops, received the award to support three battery storage facilities in Pima, Cochise and Mohave counties totaling 35 megawatts.

The new Sahuarita BESS, with a 10-megawatt peak capacity and a 40-megawatt-hour battery array, will store solar energy produced during the day and release it during peak demand in the evening. This project allows us to provide more reliable power, enhances our resilience, and saves our Members money. The system can power approximately 3,000 households for four hours.

Trico is proud to be among the top five electric cooperatives in the nation for installed solar and storage capacity. With a goal of reducing our carbon emissions by 50% by 2032, projects like the Sahuarita BESS are crucial steps towards achieving this target. Our cooperative’s commitment to clean energy was further reinforced by the presence of local leaders and stakeholders, including Sahuarita Mayor Tom Murphy, who praised the project as a model for other communities to follow.

As a non-profit cooperative, we do everything we can to provide our Members with great value at a reasonable cost. This project is an example of how Trico goes the extra mile to produce savings for our Members. When it comes to power supply, we do this by pursuing grants, managing expenses, developing innovative ways to save on power supply costs, and working with partners who understand what it means to be a co-op. Our new Sahuarita BESS will provide cost benefits not just for the community where it is located, but for all Members and for years to come.


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Summer Energy Saving Tips 2024


Stay cool this summer while saving energy and money

July 1, 2024

Have you noticed that your air conditioner seems to be working harder? Though we don’t suffer the high humidity of the southeastern states, anything above 32% can certainly affect our comfort level.

Here are some tips to help you beat the heat:

  • Use ceiling fans or oscillating fans. They help evaporate moisture from your skin, making you feel cooler. In the summer, operate ceiling fans in a counterclockwise direction. You should turn fans off in rooms that are not in use.
  • In addition to raising your thermostat to 78 degrees, make sure your air conditioner is well maintained and functioning efficiently. That means replacing filters on schedule.
  • Take shorter showers to save on water heating costs. Even if your water is heated by gas, that’s still a good idea.
  • Run large appliances such as the washer, dryer and dishwasher after 8 p.m. or early in the morning. Running these appliances at cooler hours saves the air conditioner from working as hard.
  • Here’s an easy way to lighten the load on your clothes dryer. Before you dry a load of damp clothing, toss in a clean, dry towel. The towel will absorb excess water, shortening the drying time. If your dryer does not include an autosense feature to determine drying time, remember to reduce the timer to about half of what you normally would. Remove the towel about 15 minutes after the cycle begins.
  • Plant shade trees. You may not see immediate energy benefits, but in a few years, you’ll be glad you did. You can get trees from Trico through our Operation Cool Shade program. Each year you can purchase up to three 5-gallon shade trees from Trico for $15 each. Five-gallon trees are not very big but give them a few years and they will provide shade. Trees for 2024 are sold out. Trees will be available again for purchase in January 2025.
  • Keep the window coverings closed during the day to block the sun’s heat.
  • Select energy-efficient products when you buy new cooling equipment. Your contractor should be able to give you energy fact sheets for different types, models, and designs to help you compare energy usage. See the efficiency standards for information on minimum ratings and look for the ENERGY STAR when purchasing new products.
  • Avoid setting your thermostat at a colder setting than normal when you turn on your air conditioner. It will not cool your home any faster and could result in excessive cooling and, therefore, unnecessary expense.
  • Unplug appliances and electronics when not in use. Small appliances and electronics use energy even when not in use.
  • Smart plugs are inexpensive and offer convenient solutions for scheduling and controlling your favorite electronic devices. With smart plugs, you can easily manage your coffee maker, lighting, home office equipment, video game consoles and more. Smart plugs can help you manage devices through a smart phone app, your home assistant or voice control.

For more energy saving tips, visit www.trico.coop/sustainable-energy/home-energy-savings

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Trico Pioneers Electric Vehicle Charger Installation


Trico pioneers electric vehicle charger installations

June 10, 2024

Trico has started installing electric vehicle (EV) chargers in Members’ homes to support Members with EVs and help reduce energy usage during periods of high demand.

Among the early adopters is Clifford Rosario, whose embrace of EV technology underscores the practicality and convenience it offers. Rosario, a lifelong car enthusiast, became the first homeowner to have a Trico EV charger installed at his residence. His decision to enroll in the program stems from the seamless experience it promises, coupled with substantial cost savings in the long run.

“Convenience and affordability were key factors in my decision,” he said. “While EV chargers can often be a hefty investment, opting for installation through Trico not only eases the financial burden but also ensures hassle-free usage.”

For Rosario, whose daily routine includes commuting between Tucson and Phoenix, the appeal of electric vehicles initially lay in their impressive performance metrics. However, it wasn’t until he integrated an EV into his lifestyle that he realized its full potential.

“With my hectic schedule, the last thing I need is frequent trips to the gas station,” Rosario remarks. “The transition to electric driving has not only streamlined my daily commute but also alleviated concern about maintenance and emissions.”

Rosario’s sentiment reflects a growing trend among Trico Members gravitating towards EVs for their practicality and environmental benefits. With 99% of his yearly mileage now powered by electricity, he advocates for the widespread adoption of EV chargers to facilitate this transition for others.

“Installing an EV charger at home is a game-charger,” Rosario asserts. “It not only encourages eco-friendly practices but also simplifies the switch to electric vehicles for individuals on the fence.”

Trico’s experimental EV rates offer savings for Members with EVs and a way to control costs for all Members.

To learn more about Trico’s EV Unlimited Rate, visit www.trico.coop.

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Free Virtual Solar Workshop

Is solar right for you? Join Trico’s experts virtually as they answer your rooftop solar questions BEFORE you sign with a contractor. Register in advance here.

To ask any immediate solar related questions, email us at sunwatts@trico.coop or call us at 520-744-2944, ext. 1524.

 

CEO Column: A Big Win for Trico Members


Trico is awarded $83.5 million to fund four renewable energy and battery projects

April 1, 2024

Trico was one of five cooperatives across the country selected by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to move forward in the award process for the Powering Affordable Clean Energy (PACE) program.

Trico’s projects include the following:

Arivaca Rural Microgrid: A microgrid with 3MW of solar generation and 3MW/12MWh of battery storage capacity, designed to serve the load of approximately 620 residents in Arivaca. A microgrid is a power system that can be detached from the main electric grid either full time or for a specific event, like a power outage. This project is designed to use renewable energy and battery technology to improve reliability and resilience, especially during extreme weather events like monsoons. Trico also received a $7 million grant from the Department of Energy for this project.

Trico Standalone Battery Energy Storage System: This 10MW/40MWh battery storage system will help Trico manage its peaks and save Members money by charging the battery when solar energy is plentiful and prices are low, and discharging energy during peaks when market prices are high. The project will be located on the northwest side of Trico’s service territory where rapid growth is increasing demand.

Avion Solar and Battery Energy Storage Facility II: A facility with 10MW of solar generation and 10MW/40MWh of battery storage capacity. The project will be located near Trico’s existing Avion Solar and Battery Energy Storage Facility in Marana and will be capable of powering about 2,500 homes. 

Valencia Solar and Battery Energy Storage Facility: A facility with 10MW of solar generation and 10MW/40MWh of battery storage capacity. The project will be located near Trico’s Valencia Substation and will be capable of powering about 2,500 homes.

Trico expects to develop and build the PACE projects over the next five years working with regional partners and the community to locate the projects and maximize their effectiveness. Development work will start immediately.

PACE is a big win for Trico Members and we are excited to be working with USDA and Rural Utilities Service (RUS). The projects Trico is planning to build will provide cost‑effective, sustainable energy solutions and benefit our Members for decades to come.

Captions:

In support of Trico’s $83.5 million Powering Affordable Clean Energy (PACE) award, Trico Staff and Board welcomed U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Under Secretary Dr. Basil Gooden to Trico’s headquarters on March 14, 2024. Trico provided a tour of the Avion Solar and Battery Energy Storage Facility to Under Secretary Gooden, USDA officials, and local and statewide representatives.

Top right: Under Secretary Dr. Basil Gooden (center) with Eric Hawkins, Trico COO and General Counsel, and Brian Heithoff, Trico CEO and GM, tours Trico’s Avion Solar and Battery Energy Storage Facility. Bottom right: Following the tour, Trico hosted a roundtable discussion regarding Trico’s four clean energy PACE projects.

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CEO Column: A Balanced Team for Reliability


A Balanced Team for Reliability

March 1, 2024

The winningest basketball teams in history are ones that are consistent and have players with a variety of abilities. Some are better at shooting three-pointers, some are best at defense. Having a balanced mix of skills makes the team a powerhouse on the court. The way to keep electricity reliable is a bit like that too.

The power team requires a foundation of consistent resources that can be put in the game any time they’re needed. Having enough “always available” fuel sources like natural gas can ensure consistent power generation.

Just like a team needs different players for different situations, our power grid requires multiple sources to keep the grid running. Relying solely on one player to win every game is not an effective strategy—if they get injured, you’ll likely lose. Similarly, using a single fuel source for electricity generation poses a significant risk to energy reliability. A diverse mix of energy sources acts as a safeguard, ensuring that the grid remains operational even in the face of unexpected challenges.

A diverse energy mix also enhances grid flexibility by accommodating the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources like solar and wind. Renewable energy offers an array of cost and sustainability benefits, but to thrive it needs the support of battery storage systems and “always available” power.

Diverse fuel sources contribute to the stability and reliability of the electric grid. The different sources have varying characteristics, including generation patterns, responsiveness and storage capabilities. This diversity allows for a more balanced and resilient energy system that can adapt to fluctuating demand and unforeseen circumstances.

A diverse set of energy sources is essential, but that’s not the only thing we need to have reliable electricity—or a winning team. Trico is constantly innovating to maintain reliability for today and tomorrow.

In that spirit, when we talk about Power Supply our goal is to ensure ample resources incorporating traditional, distributed, and Member-owned assets. That means building new, high-efficiency gas units, operating our Avion and Chirreon Solar and Battery facilities efficiently, and supporting over 5,000 Members with solar at their homes. In the future, it will mean new demand response programs and working closely with our Members to take on power supply challenges.

Like a great team, each one of our resources brings something special to the table, and together, they make sure we have the power we need, whenever we need it.

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FREE Virtual Energy Efficiency Workshop

Flipping a switch. Changing the air filter. Unplugging electronics. Making small changes and using energy wisely can help you save energy and money. Join us VIRTUALLY on April 24, 2024 from 6:00 – 7:00 PM for Trico’s FREE Virtual Energy Savings Workshop. This workshop will center on sharing ways you can save money by reducing energy usage in your home.

RSVP online here.

Rooftop Solar Considerations


Questions to consider before installing rooftop solar

February 1, 2024

The benefits of installing rooftop solar panels may seem like a no-brainer, but the reality is, not every home (and homeowner’s situation) is always right for solar.

There are several factors to consider before installing a rooftop solar system, like determining if your home will receive enough sun to achieve your goals, finding the right contractor, negotiating contracts and other important details.

Investing in solar for your home is a major decision. If you’re considering rooftop solar, Trico can help. We are committed to providing information and guidance to assist Members in determining if solar is right for them. Our Energy Solutions Program Managers are available to serve as your energy partner throughout the solar interconnection process. To get started, visit our website at www.trico.coop/sustainable-energy or call us at 520-744-2944.

Here are questions to consider before installing rooftop solar panels.

  1. What are my goals? If your primary goal is to save money on electric bills, you may be able to achieve this by improving the energy efficiency of your home. Visit our website for a full list of energy efficiency tips and to see our upcoming free webinars and resources.
  2. Is my roof suitable for solar? Your roof should be in good condition before installing solar panels. If your roof is old and in poor shape, it may need to be replaced before panels can be mounted. Additionally, your roof should receive a lot of sun to make the most of a rooftop system. Consider how much sun (and shade) the roof receives and if any trees will need to be removed. Solar panels perform best when facing south, so keep this in mind as you think about where the panels will be mounted.
  3. How long will I own the home? If you’re considering rooftop solar, you’re likely planning to stay in the home for several years. But if you plan to sell the home at some point down the road, consider that not all potential buyers will want to maintain a rooftop solar system. If you enter a contract to lease the system, carefully review the terms and what those mean if you decide to sell the property.
  4. Lease or purchase? Purchasing a rooftop solar system outright is expensive, which is why many homeowners opt to lease their solar panels. However, federal tax credits can help cover some of the costs for a new system, up to 30%. Regardless of how you decide to finance the solar system, make sure you get several quotes from qualified contractors.
  5. Can the contractor provide up-to-date documentation? Request proof and documentation of the contractor’s licensing, permitting and other credentials. Comb through company reviews. Check the contractor’s status with the Better Business Bureau, the AZ Attorney General’s Office, and the Arizona Registrar of Contractors.
  6. Does the contract seem reasonable and fair? If you decide to hire a contractor to install rooftop solar, carefully read the fine print of the contract. Do the system performance calculations seem realistic? Does the project timeframe sound reasonable? Negotiate the contract terms to fit your goals and needs.
  7. Who will maintain the solar panels? Determining who is responsible for maintaining the solar panels will depend on who owns the system. If you lease the system from a solar installer, it may be their responsibility. Periodically, solar panels may need to be cleaned as dirt and debris can impact panel productivity. Parts may also need to be replaced, so it’s important to know who will take on these responsibilities.

If you decide to install solar, you should contact Trico to understand how the interconnection process works as well as what to expect on your bill. The system will likely be connected to the electric grid, so you’ll need to sign an interconnection agreement.

Did you miss our Virtual Solar Workshop on January 16? A recording of the workshop is available on our website at www.trico.coop/sustainable-energy.

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CEO Column: Reliable power for today and tomorrow


CEO Column: Reliable power for today — and tomorrow

December 1, 2023

Ringing in a new year sparks a sense of renewed hope and optimism about the future. As the CEO/General Manager of Trico, for me, it’s a time to reflect on where we are and where we’re going. At the heart of this reflection, I think about ways we can better serve you, the Members of the cooperative.

Our team at Trico is always looking ahead, exploring ways to innovate and utilize new technologies to improve our services. As our nation increasingly relies on electricity to power the economy, keeping the lights on has never been more important. We’re dedicated to making a difference in the communities we serve by providing our Members cost-effective and sustainable energy solutions.

I want to share some statistics with you that describe where we are and where we are going. These facts show Trico is in a strong position to support the needs of our Members and the communities we serve, and ready for the challenges of the coming years. In the coming months, I will continue to share information about Trico’s future and how we are performing. I hope this will confirm for you that serving our Members’ best interest is our top priority. 

One critical component of reliable power is the mix of energy resources used to generate electricity. Trico purchases power from a diverse mix of providers and some of the energy we provide is generated on Trico’s own system. Trico is increasing the amount of renewable energy used to serve its Members with the goal of reducing emissions by 50% by 2032. At the same time, we are also adding new high-efficiency natural gas units, in partnership with Arizona Electric Power Cooperative, to help support the needs of the system. Our current energy resource mix is made up of 33 percent renewables, 31 percent coal/steam, 30 percent natural gas and six percent hydropower.

We devote a lot of attention to keeping costs down to support our Members. Trico is in the top 20% of U.S. electric cooperatives in terms of greatest number of Members served per employee. Our employees are a high-achieving, diverse group and they display the cooperative spirit every day. We get a lot done while controlling costs!

When we talk about sustainable energy, that also means reliability. Over the last five years from 2018-2022, our Members have experienced over 90 minutes less outage time per year, than the median cooperative in the U.S. We know you rely on us to keep the lights on, and we take that responsibility seriously. Every department at Trico contributes to this reliability, and we aim to be even better.

Another measure of success is the amount of Membership Equity we return to our Members. Trico has returned Membership Equity for 14 years in a row, and this year Trico is giving back $5.4 million to its Members. That is $5.4 million that will stay in our local communities and help our Members.

As we turn our focus to 2024, Trico will continue working to provide the reliable, affordable electricity you expect and deserve—for today and tomorrow. On behalf of Trico’s employees and Board of Directors, I wish all of you a healthy, peaceful and prosperous holiday season. We look forward to serving you in 2024.

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Free Virtual Solar Workshop

Is solar right for you? Join Trico’s experts virtually as they answer your rooftop solar questions BEFORE you sign with a contractor. Register in advance here.

 

To ask any immediate solar related questions, email us at sunwatts@trico.coop or call us at 520-744-2944, ext. 1524.