New smart thermostat program launches for Xcel Energy Wisconsin customers

EAU CLAIRE, Wisconsin (June 26, 2019) – Just in time for the predicted hot weather this weekend, Xcel Energy is now offering Wisconsin electric customers who control their home’s cooling with a smart thermostat $25 annually for participating in Xcel Energy’s AC Rewards program.

AC Rewards is a new program that uses smart thermostats to help reduce peak electric demand. In addition to annual incentives, Xcel Energy electric customers with central air conditioning and an internet-connected wireless network (Wi-Fi) may qualify for product incentives up to $75 from Focus on Energy with a $45 match from Xcel Energy.  

With AC Rewards, the customer allows Xcel Energy to make adjustments to their smart thermostat during hot summer days, when the demand for electricity is highest. These adjustments help manage peaks and ease the strain on the electrical grid by cutting back on central air conditioning operating time. Participation in AC Rewards is a new alternative to the company’s original central air conditioner control program, Saver’s Switch, and customers cannot be enrolled in both programs.

To enroll, customers must either already have a qualifying smart thermostat, or must purchase and install one in their home. At this time, only select Honeywell and ecobee thermostats qualify.

Customers can visit the AC Rewards page to learn more and enroll their smart thermostat. Cash incentives are available through Focus on Energy (external link) and when an eligible customer applies for the Focus on Energy incentive, they will also qualify for the Xcel Energy incentive (no additional paperwork necessary).

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Xcel Energy (NASDAQ: XEL) provides the energy that powers millions of homes and businesses across eight Western and Midwestern states. Headquartered in Minneapolis, the company is an industry leader in responsibly reducing carbon emissions and producing and delivering clean energy solutions from a variety of renewable sources at competitive prices. For more information, visit xcelenergy.com or follow us on Twitter and Facebook.