Header
APS Flex Solutions
aps
aps
Flex Solutions: A Flexible Way to Get Paid for Reducing Energy Use
Your business can earn compensation for reducing energy use during scheduled events that help support the energy grid when demand is high.
Because every business operates differently, Flex Solutions provides flexible participation options, so you can choose what works best for your operations.
Program benefits
Flexible options: Customize your participation with event and compensation options
Earn more: The more you participate, the more you can earn
Easy to manage: Enhanced technology, clear communication and ongoing support make participation easier
Choose the option that's right for you
Program Events may occur between June 1 and October 15, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. You can choose:
- Up to 3, 6 or 12 events each season
- 3-hour or 5-hour events
- Notice the day before or one hour before an event
How you can earn
Depending on your participation level and performance during an event, you may earn up to $60 per kilowatt saved.
Two ways to earn:
- Seasonal Demand Reduction Payment: Your average seasonal performance
- Event Energy Payment: Your achieved energy reduction during events
You'll receive compensation within three billing cycles after the program season ends on October 15.
You may also see additional savings on your monthly energy bill from using less energy.
If your business can't participate in an event, that's okay. Participation is always optional.
How to enroll
Getting started is easy. Contact your APS Account Manager or email flex@aps.com to learn more or sign up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I eligible?
To be eligible for the program you:
- Are an APS commercial or industrial customer located in APS’s service territory with a greater than 10 kW peak demand.
- Use APS owned 15-minute interval meters. Other types of meters or communication methods may be allowed. Please contact us at flex@aps.com if you have questions about whether your equipment is eligible.
- Are a customer who is current on their energy account at the time of enrollment and contributes to the demand side management adjustment charge or any related cost recovery.
- Do not participate in another APS demand response program or are on a special rate schedule or tariff where you are receiving an incentive or unique rate.
- Do not participate in Extra High Load Factor (XHLF) where you’re receiving a special generation price, a generation capacity discount or any other economic discount.
- Are not on a rate schedule or tariff where the generation component is provided by a third-party provider.
Can my facility participate if I have solar or backup generators?
Yes. Facilities with solar, energy storage or backup generators may be eligible.
If you use backup generators to participate, you are responsible for complying with all applicable environmental regulations, permits and maintenance requirements. We may request information about your equipment and permits.
Facilities with solar or energy storage must have a separate advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) meter to accurately measure energy reductions during events.
Facilities are not eligible if proposed energy reductions could affect the health or safety of others.
What if my building is master-metered?
Master-metered properties may participate. We'll work with you to determine which meters can be included in the program.
What equipment is required to participate?
No special equipment is required. Many businesses participate by temporarily reducing energy use from HVAC systems, lighting or other equipment during events.
What are High Priority Events?
High Priority Events are rare events that may occur at any time of year in response to an unplanned situation affecting the energy grid. If one is called, you'll receive at least 15 minutes' notice.
Compensation timing depends on when the event occurs:
- Events during the season (June 1 to October 15): Payments are issued within three billing cycles after October 15.
- Events outside the season (October 16 to May 31): Payments are issued within three billing cycles after the month of the event.
Will I need to participate in test events?
We may schedule test events to confirm that your system setup and communications are working properly. These events help ensure your energy reduction estimates are accurate.
If your performance during a test event differs from the information provided during enrollment, your participation settings may be updated based on the test results.
- Number of events: We may call one test event each year or when there’s a change to your enrollment
- Duration of events: Up to five hours
- Event scheduling: We’ll schedule the test at a time that works best for your business
- Event notification timing: You can choose to receive notifications either a day ahead or on the day of the event.
What happens if my facility can't participate in an event or doesn't meet its energy reduction goal?
Participation is always optional, and there is no penalty for skipping an event.
If your facility reduces less energy than planned, your compensation may be reduced accordingly. Choosing a realistic energy reduction goal can help maximize your earnings.
Your APS representative can help determine the right participation level for your business.
Who can help me identify energy-saving strategies?
Your APS representative can help identify opportunities to reduce energy use during events based on your facility and operational needs.
Strategies may include:
- Adjusting HVAC settings
- Reducing or dimming lighting
- Pump control
- Industrial process adjustments
- Other energy-saving measures
Can I track my performance and estimated compensation?
Yes. Within a few days of enrolling, you'll have access to an online dashboard where you can:
- View enrollment details
- See participating locations
- Track current and upcoming events
- Monitor estimated earnings
- Review your energy reduction performance
Need help navigating the online dashboard?
Download the user guide for step-by-step instructions.
Are there any tax implications for participating in the program?
Please consult a tax advisor regarding any possible tax liability resulting from compensation you receive by participating in this program. Payments of $600 or more may result in the issuance of a Form 1099, if required under the current Internal Revenue Code.
What are the program terms?
Automatic renewal and cancellation
Your enrollment renews automatically each year unless either party provides at least 30 days' written notice to cancel.
Program updates
We may update program terms, including compensation, before a new enrollment period. If changes affect your participation, we'll provide written notice at least 30 days in advance.
Enrollment changes
Enrollment updates can be made throughout the year. Changes submitted at least 48 hours before 9 a.m. on the day of a Program Event will take effect for that event.
Termination for non-compliance
Participation may be terminated if program requirements are not met and the issue is not resolved within 30 days of written notice.
How can I unenroll from the program?
You can unenroll at any time by contacting your APS account manager or emailing flex@aps.com.
