Latest news with #RioRancho
Fox News
14-07-2025
- Fox News
Why you should think twice before joining a power saver program
Power saver programs are utility-sponsored demand response initiatives that help reduce electricity usage during periods of peak demand. These programs typically target central air conditioners (AC) and heat pumps, since cooling equipment drives spikes in summer energy demand. In exchange for incentives such as bill credits or rebates, participating homeowners allow the utility to temporarily adjust or cycle their HVAC systems on hot days. But it's not all that straightforward. I recently received an email from Leah, an HVAC professional based in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. "I would like to see an article about the push for Smart Thermostats, and the convergence of the utilities' attempts to control air conditioning usage to conserve energy." He pointed to a growing push for smart thermostats and what he sees as an effort by utilities to take more control over air conditioning use, all under the banner of energy conservation. Let's discuss the power saver programs in detail, including their pros, cons and everything else you need to know. Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy ReportGet my best tech tips, urgent security alerts, and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you'll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide - free when you join my Most residential power saver programs function by temporarily reducing air conditioner usage at participating homes during peak periods (usually summer afternoons). In most cases, the utility installs a control device on the outdoor AC unit's compressor. During a peak event, a radio signal from the utility will cycle the compressor off and on at set intervals. Legacy programs like Xcel Energy's Saver's Switch use this method. Another method utilities use is controlling thermostats. You're asked to enroll your Wi-Fi smart thermostat in a bring-your-own-thermostat program. During a demand response event, the utility or program operator remotely raises the thermostat setpoint for a few hours. This causes the AC to run less. Most of these programs allow you to override the change via the thermostat or app; however, emergency events may temporarily disable this option. Power saver programs provide several benefits for both participating consumers and the wider community. First, there are bill savings and incentives. Participants receive direct financial rewards, ranging from annual bill credits of up to $40 to up-front enrollment bonuses of $25-$100. These programs also result in collective demand reduction during peak times, helping prevent grid overloads and blackouts. By coordinating energy reductions across thousands of homes, utilities can avoid firing up expensive peaker plants or purchasing high-priced electricity on the open market. Reducing peak demand can also help avoid turning on older, more polluting fossil-fuel generators. That means fewer CO₂ emissions and lower air pollution on the hottest days, when health risks are already high. Despite the benefits, residential power saver programs come with several potential drawbacks and concerns that have been raised by both customers and experts. "In New Mexico, where I live and work, our electric utility, PNM, offers a 'Power Saver' program. Customers can opt in to have a box mounted to their condenser, which disrupts the signal between the furnace and the condenser during peak consumption hours, effectively shutting it down," Leah tells me. "It's not great for the condenser, and we often get calls from customers who don't fully understand what they signed up for and are confused when their AC stops working. Now, there's a push to gain access to Wi-Fi-enabled thermostats to achieve the same goal. They want to control our ACs." Understandably, many people are uncomfortable with utilities taking over their cooling systems, especially in extreme heat. Take the 2022 incident with Xcel Energy in Colorado. During an energy emergency, 22,000 smart thermostat users were temporarily locked out of adjusting their ACs. Many had never experienced a no-override event before and were understandably frustrated. While rare, these incidents raise valid concerns about control and consent. There are also technical concerns. Frequent short cycling of AC compressors can lead to increased wear and tear. Every startup strains the compressor motor, and repeated on-off cycles within a short period may reduce efficiency or shorten the unit's lifespan, although this depends on the system and the frequency of the events. Some people enrolled in thermostat adjustment programs without realizing it. This leads to confusion and frustration when their air conditioning is unexpectedly limited. Often, this happens because smart thermostats come with default opt-in settings or vague incentive language that can be confusing. In Texas in 2021, many residents saw their smart thermostats rise above 78°F during an ERCOT conservation alert. They later found out they had unknowingly agreed to let utilities make temperature adjustments. These programs also raise important data privacy concerns. Wi-Fi-enabled thermostats collect and transmit sensitive information, including occupancy patterns, temperature preferences and when a home is likely unoccupied. Cybersecurity is another issue. Like any internet-connected device, smart thermostats can be vulnerable to hacking or malicious remote commands. So far, no major breaches have impacted AC demand programs, but privacy advocates say the risks are real and growing. Whether you're thinking about signing up or are already enrolled, these steps will help you stay in control, protect your comfort and avoid unwanted surprises: Before you join any power saver or thermostat program, read the terms completely. Ensure you understand the extent of the utility's control, whether you can override changes and how frequently adjustments may occur. Always choose manual enrollment during smart home app setup instead of letting it enroll you automatically. Use a Wi-Fi thermostat that makes it easy to override changes during demand response events. Many models let you opt out temporarily or permanently through the app or the device itself. Learn how to do this before a peak event occurs, so you're not caught off guard. Find expert-reviewed smart thermostats that put you in control at Turn on alerts from your utility so you receive notifications about peak demand events by email, text or app. Check your utility's website for schedules or forecasts and opt out in advance if needed. Staying informed gives you more control over how your system behaves. Use strong passwords for your thermostat and home Wi-Fi. Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) if available. Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. Get more details about my best expert-reviewed Password Managers of 2025 at Keep your thermostat's software updated to protect it from potential security risks or remote interference. If the program doesn't work for you, learn how to remove your thermostat from it. Utilities usually offer opt-out instructions through their website or app. You may also need to adjust settings or factory reset your thermostat. For more ways to save on your power bill or to see if opting out makes sense for your budget, visit Keep an eye on how your AC performs during demand events. If you notice unusual behavior like frequent short cycling or your home becomes uncomfortably warm, it might be time to reconsider your participation. For more ways on how to keep your home cool and comfortable, check out Power saver programs can help reduce grid stress and offer small financial incentives, but they come with trade-offs. Customers may experience reduced comfort, equipment wear, and loss of control, sometimes without realizing they've opted in. There are also valid concerns around data privacy and security. These programs need clearer communication and better safeguards if they're going to be widely accepted. Is the promise of energy savings worth giving up privacy and control over your home's temperature? Let us know by writing to us at Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy ReportGet my best tech tips, urgent security alerts, and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you'll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide - free when you join my Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
Yahoo
04-07-2025
- Yahoo
Rio Rancho Police investigate body found on Northern Boulevard
RIO RANCHO, N.M. (KRQE) – Rio Rancho Police closed a portion of Northern Boulevard Thursday morning as officers investigate a body that was found. Police said the body of an adult male was found near the intersection of Northern Boulevard and Calor Road NE around 5 a.m. The roadway had been blocked off earlier in the morning due to rainwater washing debris across the roadway, according to RRPD Capt. Jacquelynn Reedy. Story continues below Crime: Albuquerque police: Child exploitation sting was a success Trending: Poll: What is the strangest town name in New Mexico? News: How could New Mexico schools be impacted by withholding of federal funds? Wildfire: Couple loses home to Trout Fire burning in the Gila National Forest The body was found among the debris by road crews who responded to assess and clear the area. No foul play is suspected, and the identity of the person will not be released until next of kin is notified, Reedy said in an email. The intersection of Northern Boulevard and Calor Road NE will remain closed until the investigation is complete and crews are able to safely remove all remaining debris from the road. This is a developing story. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
26-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Rio Rancho veteran and his family receive mortgage free home
RIO RANCHO, N.M. (KRQE) – It was a once-in-a-lifetime surprise for a retired Army sergeant and his family. Sergeant Mike Lawson spent nearly a decade with the army as a combat engineer with deployments across the Middle East. And on Wednesday, a non-profit helped put the retired serviceman in a new, mortgage-free home in Rio Rancho. 'I consider myself very lucky, in 2009 in Afghanistan, it was an extremely difficult year, some of us didn't make it back, so I feel very lucky to be standing here today,' said Sgt. Mike Lawson. Story continues below News: Bystander injured in shootout in Albuquerque sues suspect and law enforcement KRQE Investigates: Former APD officer tied to DWI scandal now working in Durango Veteran Voices: Rio Rancho veteran and his family receive mortgage free home Trending: Businesses near Lake Roberts struggle in aftermath of Trout Fire Like many service members, Lawson came back with PTSD and physical injuries. He said he needed help getting back to normal life at home. And after moving year after year while enlisted, the family now has a home of their own in Rio Rancho, thanks to the building homes for heroes program, 'Standing here in front of this amazing house, with my amazing family, and this amazing group building homes for heroes, feels like a dream,' expressed Lawson. Mike and his wife, Crystal, and their three kids are leaving behind a 700 square foot apartment and starting their next chapter. 'I think we look back and we're not sure how we did it in the two-bedroom, one bath, but we made it work. And I don't think if you had told us back then, this is where we would be 15 years later, we wouldn't believe it. Not a chance,' shared Crystal Lawson. It's a new home giving the family a place for lifelong memories and milestones. 'There's a saying, sometimes it's better to be lucky than good. Today, I feel like the luckiest man alive,' said Lawson. The Lawson family is moving in this week, and said they're looking forward to one tradition: ordering pizza on the first night in their new place. Building Homes for Heroes has helped build or fix up 400 homes for veterans nationwide. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
20-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Jon Jones Responds to Dana White's Deadline with Blunt Update
Jon Jones Responds to Dana White's Deadline with Blunt Update originally appeared on Athlon Sports. The UFC heavyweight title scene remains in limbo, and the suspense is starting to wear thin. Jon Jones, arguably the most dominant force in MMA history, still hasn't given the green light on a showdown with interim champ Tom Aspinall. While Dana White has been working behind the curtain to make it happen, the champ's latest comments suggest the UFC might be left hanging. And if White's tone is any indication, patience is running out. Advertisement During a recent appearance on The Jim Rome Show, Dana White didn't sugarcoat the situation. The UFC president confirmed the clock is very much ticking. Feb 15, 2020; Rio Rancho, New Mexico, USA; UFC fighter Jon Jones attends the light heavyweight bout between Jan Blachowicz (blue) and Corey Anderson (red) during UFC Fight Night at Santa Ana Star Arena.© Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports 'We'll see how this thing plays out over the next couple of weeks. If we can't get this fight done, we'll move on quickly … We'll have answers in the next couple weeks.' When Rome pressed for a firm timeline, White held the line: 'A couple of weeks.' That's not exactly vague. The UFC is ready to move with or without Jones. But 'Bones' doesn't sound like a man feeling the heat. Speaking with Full Send Podcast, Jones delivered a response that felt more like a retirement tease than fight hype. 'I don't want to say that I'm retired because fighting is in my blood... but right now, I could really care less about fighting.' 'If the itch comes back—and if it comes back—then I'll do it with my whole heart.' On the subject of Tom Aspinall, Jones didn't mince words: 'He's just not in a position to excite me... If I whoop his ass, it's going to be the next guy. I've replayed this story so many times.' Translation? He's not in a rush. And with a decision looming in less than two weeks, White may be forced to pivot if Jones stays noncommittal. Whether that means elevating Aspinall or creating another interim detour, the UFC's heavyweight division can't afford to stay frozen. Advertisement This next move will be massive—not just for Dana White, but for the future of a division that's been stuck in neutral far too long. Related: UFC Abu Dhabi: Robert Whittaker Set to Face Fastest-Rising Middleweight Star in Legacy Fight Related: UFC Star Wants Dricus Du Plessis in Historic Africa vs. Africa Showdown This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 19, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
06-06-2025
- Yahoo
Students calls for answers on why Rio Rancho HS band directors were reassigned
RIO RANCHO, N.M. (KRQE) – Students and parents want answers as to why two beloved band directors at Rio Rancho High School are being reassigned to different schools within the district. Matthew Casarez has been with Rio Rancho High School for 15 years, and Alexander Austell has been with the district since 2016. Students rallied against the decision with a petition that has already received over 300 signatures. Rio Rancho High baseball player accused of urinating in water jug no longer faces charges RRHS Principal Millan Baca sent a letter to students and parents three days ago, saying they will not be returning to their positions, effective immediately. The district it is is a personnel issue, and is limited in what they can disclose. A spokesperson for Rio Rancho Public School said Casarez has since resigned. Thursday night, there was a closed meeting for parents discussing the recent move. Dear RRHS Band Community, As you may have heard, there has been a shift in the Rams Band Program. Mr. Casarez and Mr. Austell will not be returning to their positions at Rio Rancho High School, effective immediately. As this is a personnel issue, we are limited in what we are allowed to disclose, but please know that our main concern is the students of the Rio Rancho High School Band Program and how we will move forward through the summer and into the school year to give them the best experience possible. The administration of RRHS and the RRPS Fine Arts Department will be holding meetings with key constituencies of the band program over the next few days to assess the status of events such as the materials distribution this week, the Color Guard Camp in July, and the DCI Show on July 15. Our intent is to move forward with these events as planned, but we need to speak to the many people involved. The biggest event of this summer is Marching Band Camp, scheduled for July 21–August 1. Marching Band Camp will take place as planned. There will also be a general parent meeting this Thursday, June 5, at 6:00 PM in the RRHS Band Room. This is a change from the previously announced June 2 meeting. We encourage you to attend this meeting. Rio Rancho Public Schools has always been committed to the highest standards of excellence and achievement in the fine arts, and its devotion to the RRHS Band Program remains firm. The administration of RRHS and the RRPS Fine Arts Department are prepared to do whatever is necessary to support the band program as we move forward. However, please know that the support of the parents and guardians of these young musicians is vital to the RRHS band community. Only together can we ensure the continuity of great musical experiences for our students. We plan to communicate regularly with you throughout the next few months. We appreciate your patience as we move through this process. There will be a follow-up email later this evening with more information regarding the materials distribution scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday this week. Please be sure to check your inboxes. Mr. Millan Baca, Principal, RRHS and Dr. Kurt Schmidt Executive Director of Fine Arts, RRPS Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
