Peak Rewards Pilot for Smart Thermostats FAQs

What is the Alberta Energy Efficiency Alliance (AEEA)’s Peak Rewards Pilot for Smart Thermostats?

• The Peak Rewards Pilot for Smart Thermostats is a voluntary program for EPCOR’s residential customers residing in postal codes beginning with T6R, T6W, and T5E.

• Throughout the summer, during peak demand events, your thermostat manufacturer may make small, temporary temperature adjustments to your enrolled smart thermostat. These adjustments help ease pressure on the grid at critical times.

• Most events will take place between June 1st – September 30th, with the possibility of a small number of events being called between December 1st – February 28th.

• Adjustments are limited to 3 degrees or less and last no more than 4 hours. Most events happen between 4–8pm MST.

• Participants will receive a one-time $50 virtual prepaid Mastercard® (limit one per household) after successfully enrolling in the program. You’ll also get up to a $25 Prepaid Mastercard each year you remain in the program and participate in events.

 Why is this pilot important? 

Will I be asked to complete surveys as part of the Peak Rewards Pilot?

• Yes. As part of the Peak Rewards Pilot, participants may be invited to complete short surveys during or after demand response event seasons. These surveys help the AEEA and its program partners understand participant experience, comfort impacts, and overall program performance.

• Survey responses are used to support program evaluation and improvement. Survey results are typically analyzed in aggregate and handled in accordance with the program’s privacy and data use policies.

What do I get for enrolling?

When will I get my $50 Prepaid Mastercard?

How do I earn the $25 annual participation reward?

As long as you participate in 50% of events, you’ll receive a $25 Prepaid Mastercard before the next summer season. The $25 Prepaid Mastercard will be sent to the email address used to register your smart thermostat. Limit one per household.

If I replace my thermostat, can I get another $50 reward?

Which thermostats qualify for the program?

Where can I find the Terms and Conditions for the program?

How do I sign up for the Peak Rewards Pilot for Smart Thermostats?

• Select your brand from the list of eligible thermostat models and click “Enrol”. You’ll be directed to a short enrolment form.

• Once AEEA confirms your eligibility, you will receive a confirmation of your enrolment status via the email address linked to your thermostat account.

What is peak demand?

• Peak demand is the time of day when electricity use is at its highest, such as when many customers are using power at the same time due to daily routines, extreme temperatures, major events, or system constraints.

• The AEEA Peak Rewards Pilot helps manage peak demand by making small, temporary adjustments to participating smart thermostats. When you join, you’re supporting a more efficient and resilient electricity grid in your area during times of peak demand, while continuing to manage your home’s comfort.

How will I know that a temperature adjustment is in progress?

What happens during an event?

• During an event, your thermostat will be adjusted by up to 3 degrees above or below your current setting for no more than 4 hours.

• Sometimes, your thermostat may pre-cool your home before an event starts to help you stay comfortable — though this may not happen if the event is urgent. You’ll always receive a notification when an event is scheduled or underway, depending on your thermostat and settings. Pre-cooling or pre-heating may be used to increase comfort during an event. 

Will these adjustments affect my comfort?

• Adjustments are small and your comfort is always the priority. Pre‑cooling or pre-heating may be used to help maintain comfort while supporting electricity savings during peak times.

• You’re always in control and can opt out of any event at any time through your thermostat, app, or web browser. 

Can I opt out of an event?

What if I want to leave the program?

Who can I contact with questions?

Who is the Alberta Energy Efficiency Alliance?

Who delivers and supports the AEEA Smart Thermostat program?

• The Smart Thermostat program is delivered by the Alberta Energy Efficiency Alliance (AEEA) in partnership with EPCOR, CLEAResult and EnergyHub, two experienced and trusted energy program partners.

• EPCOR is the utility partner for this pilot, offering participation to a group of its customers and helping guide the pilot.

• CLEAResult supports program delivery, customer communications, and overall program management on behalf of AEEA. Emails sent from @clearesult.com are legitimate program communications.

• EnergyHub provides the secure technology platform that connects eligible smart thermostats and enables demand response events. Emails sent from @energyhub.com are legitimate program communications.