Save money with Wright-Hennepin Energy-Saving Programs

Posted by Lauren Dublin on November 17, 2022

Winter often brings higher electric bills as many Minnesotans switch on the heat, space heaters, or electric fireplaces. With prices of everything on the rise, Wright-Hennepin (WH) offers several options to save members money through Energy-Saving Programs.

Dual Fuel (Heating) Program

WH’s Dual Fuel and Electric Thermal Storage (ETS) heating programs help members save money on home heating bills.

During times of peak demand, your backup heating system may be used while your primary electric heating system is shut off. To qualify for the Dual Fuel program, you must have one of the following primary electric heat sources, hardwired with a minimum of 4.5 kW:

• Electric boiler
• Electric furnace
• Baseboard heat
• Plenum heater
• Wall or ceiling heater
• Electric floor heat

ETS systems charge overnight, between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., and you do not need a backup heating source.

Note: All electric heating in the home MUST be a part of the Dual Fuel program to qualify for Energy-Saving Program rates.

WH also provides a rebate for an ETS system and Dual Fuel for up to $250.

Finally, if electricity is the primary heat source for your home, it qualifies for a tax exemption from November through April.

Water heating

Members have the choice of two water heating programs through WH: the Quick Cash Water Heating program or the Metered Water Heating program. Each program offers the member savings on tank purchase and operation. The program is designed so the water is heated during off-peak hours when electrical demand is at a minimum.  The programs also require a minimum of a 100-gallon water heater with mixing valve.

Electric Vehicle (EV) charging

For members with an EV, WH offers two Energy-Saving Programs with discounted charging rates: purchasing a ZEFNET charging station or bringing your own charging station.

Purchase a ZEFNET charging station at the Energy Wise MN Store:

Selecting a high-quality electric-vehicle charging station that meets your needs has never been easier! WH has partnered with Energy Wise MN to take the guesswork out of purchasing an EV charging station. We’ve narrowed it down to our top three models, and we’ll help you find the one that best fits your lifestyle.

Bring your own charging station:

If you are purchasing a different wall-mount level 2 charging station, you can choose to participate in one of two charging options. The Energy-Saving Program meter and receiver equipment will need to be located outside the home for both options. The programs are designed to reduce the peak demand, allowing WH to offer members a reduced rate for vehicle charging.

Quick Cash Air Conditioning Program

Summer is when many Minnesotans use the most electricity. By participating in the Quick Cash program, you can help conserve energy during the highest demand days. Members allow WH to cycle their air conditioners on and off for 15-minute intervals during times of high energy demand. Doing so helps WH to reduce our overall energy demand and save money on wholesale power costs.

In return, you receive a $5 bill credit each month from June - September. Members need to have equipment installed outside the home to sign up for this program. Note: In order to qualify for this program, you must be enrolled in at least one other Energy-Saving Program.

Interested in signing up? Head to whe.org, or call us at (763) 477-3000 to learn more about any of WH’s Energy-Saving Programs.