What happens if a building owner enrolls in a demand response program?

Enrolling in a demand response program involves a commitment from the building owner to adjust energy consumption during peak demand periods. This typically means that the building will reduce electricity use when the demand for power is at its highest. The primary goal of such programs is to help balance the grid and reduce the risk of blackouts or other issues associated with excessive demand.

By participating in these programs, building owners are often incentivized to shift their energy use patterns, which can involve temporarily dimming lights, adjusting HVAC systems, or even shutting down non-essential loads. This not only supports the stability of the energy grid but can also result in cost savings for the building owner by allowing them to avoid higher energy costs associated with peak usage.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary outcomes of participating in a demand response program. Tax incentives are not a guaranteed result of enrollment, nor is a switch to renewable energy sources necessary or mandatory. In fact, the objective is to mitigate energy use rather than increase costs, which counters the suggestion of facing higher utility costs. Therefore, the best answer reflects the direct consequence of engaging in energy management strategies associated with demand response programs.