Summertime in Texas is a scorcher this year with temperatures hitting the century mark daily...
We should always be mindful of conserving our resources, but in these high energy consuming days we need to be even more aware of the potential problems of of careless waste. The following notice was released in Central Texas recently regarding power usage during these high use times and suggesting ways to conserve and reduce the need for excessive energy.
Power Watch – Conservation Needed Electric Grid Operator Predicting Record Electricity Demand Today The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), grid operator for most of the state, and the Public Utility Commission, are encouraging consumers and businesses to reduce their electricity use today during peak electricity hours from 3 to 7 p.m. due to expected high electricity usage.
“We are expecting high electricity demand today due to the heat advisory in effect for much of the state,” Vice President of System Planning and Operations Kent Saathoff said. “We don’t anticipate any electricity emergencies but due to the effect of some unplanned generation outages, we expect to have minimal reserves available, which could increase the possibility that we will declare an advisory or further steps in the Energy Emergency Alert procedures. We will be monitoring the grid very closely.”
The peak electricity demand could be close to 62,500 megawatts (MW) today, although a sudden rain or cloud cover over a large metropolitan area could reduce temperatures and demand. The current record for peak demand is 62,339 MW which occurred Aug. 17, 2006. (One megawatt typically powers about 200 average homes during hot summer weather.)
Businesses and consumers are encouraged to:
· Set air conditioning thermostats to 80 degrees or higher.
· Cool with fans.
· Close blinds and drapes on windows that get direct sun.
· Turn off all unnecessary lights, appliances, and electronic equipment.
· Avoid using big appliances between the hours of 3 to 7 p.m.
See more conservation tips at “Powerful Advice,” Public Utility Commission of Texas:
www.puc.state.tx.us./ocp/conserve BACKGROUND
