SoCal Edison wants to turn off your A/C, save you money

In an effort to conserve energy during peak energy usage periods this summer, Southern California Edison has created the "Summer Discount Plan" for residents of Southern California. The plan, according to a flyer sent in the mail and this site, would allow SCE to interrupt your air conditioner's operations during peak energy consumption periods in return for a rebate of up to $200.

For homes with older air conditioners, Edison will install a remote control device that would allow them to interrupt the A/C without interrupting your home's entire electrical power.

It is a tempting offer. My home's electricity bill easily passes $150 a month during July, August and September due to heavy use of the Air Conditioner between 4pm and 7pm. On days in Santa Clarita where the mercury flirts with 105 degrees, my house's interior temperature can approach an intolerable 85 to 90 degrees.

It is not known how many Southern California residents have signed up for this program, but the deadline to get your application in is Sunday, June 4, 2006.

Will you sign up for this?