This paper provides an overview of demand-side management (DSM) alternatives. It covers the general state of the art, projected developments, and the application of DSM alternatives. It starts with a background discussion of DSM which provides the reader with a historical reference and an understanding of the types of needs DSM alternatives can address and the benefits they can provide. Categories of DSM alternatives are then described. General design, application, and issues involved are discussed. Although it is not possible to discuss DSM alternatives in complete detail, specific information based on actual installations is presented. Also, typical values, costs, and load impacts are given in most cases.