Why Hilo is for energy-conscious households, too!
Already careful with your energy use? You might think signing up for Hilo isn’t worth it — after all, if you already keep consumption low, how much more could you really save during peak demand events? Think again: even the most energy-efficient households can benefit from Hilo!
A quick reminder: Hilo is a smart home service that helps you reduce your electricity use. In winter, when demand is high, there can be up to 30 peak demand events. During these events, the less energy you use, the more money you save.
Flexibility that fits your lifestyle
It's simple: you choose your participation mode — Moderate, Intrepid, or Extreme. During a peak demand event, the temperature on your smart thermostats (whether Hilo or compatible models) automatically drops by 3, 4, or 6 degrees. This way, your consumption decreases no matter what the starting temperature was.
Does it feel a little too chilly for your taste? Just schedule a preheating phase in the rooms you’ll be using during the event. The thermostat settings will rise by a few degrees before dropping for the reduction phase, keeping you more comfortable. You can also exclude certain thermostats from automation during an event — for example, the one in your nursery. In short, Hilo gives you all the flexibility you need.
Savings that add up
First, the equipment won’t cost you a dime since Hilo provides smart thermostats at no charge! These devices let you manage your energy use with precision — even remotely through the app. In winter, let Hilo automate your thermostats during peak demand events according to the settings you’ve chosen.
Next, when you sign up for Hilo, you’re also enrolled in Hydro-Québec’s Rate Flex D.
- Outside of peak demand events — i.e., for 95% of the winter season — the price you pay for electricity is lower than the base rate.
- During peak demand events, however, the price is higher.
That’s why lowering your energy use during peak events is key to making the most of your savings. By doing so, you could save up to 20% on your winter electricity bill.
Already have smart thermostats? Certain models from Honeywell Home, Mysa, and Sinopé are compatible and can be automated by Hilo during peak demand events. If you own one of these models, just order a free Hilo hub — you’ll even receive a bonus of up to $210 per connected device!
Looking for more ways to lighten your bill? Create scenes to automate how your connected devices run, control your devices remotely to make sure you’re only drawing the electricity you need, and of course... follow our tips for smart energy use!
Twins Constance and Prudence Wattson: Condo owners, energy-savvy consumers
- 5-room condo in a multi-unit building
- 5 Hilo smart thermostats for electric baseboards
- Annual electricity costs: $850
- Winter bill savings: $170
Estimate your savings
And don’t forget the other benefits!
First off, you can use the mobile app to simplify your daily life and increase your comfort without lifting a finger. For example, Hilo smart thermostats can be included in programmed scenes or adjusted remotely.
With just a few quick taps, you can set the temperature to drop while you’re out in the winter and rise again just in time for your return. That way, you’re not paying to heat an empty home — or waiting hours for it to warm up again once you’re back.
Next, you're helping the planet. By lowering your consumption during winter peaks, you're supporting Québec’s electrification efforts. You're also helping limit the need to buy more expensive, less clean energy from outside the province and reduce the costly investments needed to expand the grid.
