CL&P Braces For Energy Demand To Rise As Temperatures Soar

FAIRFIELD COUNTY, Conn. -- ISO New England Inc., operator of the region's bulk electric power system, is asking consumers to voluntarily conserve electricity to keep supply and demand in balance as heat and humidity continues to blanket the Fairfield County area.

Conserve energy this week as power grids are pushed to their limits in high temperatures.
Photo Credit: *File*

by Eric Gendron

07/16/2013 2:00 p.m.

The heat wave in New England could drive regional electricity use to near-record levels,, ISO said in a statement.

“As the heat continues to build throughout the week, electricity demand is expected to increase significantly, which is likely to result in tight system conditions,” said Vamsi Chadalavada, executive vice president and chief operating officer of ISO New England Inc. “The ISO is asking consumers to voluntarily conserve as a precautionary step to help manage system conditions.”

Taking simple, practical steps to reduce electricity use, particularly from noon to 8:00 p.m., will help maintain system reliability.

ISO New England suggests several quick ways to reduce electricity consumption:

•Raise air conditioning thermostats by a few degrees -- to 74 to 78 degrees.
Turn off unneeded lights and appliances.
Turn off unnecessary office equipment.
Shut off air conditioners when leaving home for extended periods of time.
Delay laundry and other chores requiring electricity until the early morning or late evening.

New England’s electricity usage is forecast to reach near record-breaking levels, with the highest peak demand forecast for Thursday, July 18, at 27,800 megawatts. Tuesday’s forecast peak demand is 27,500 megawatts, and Wednesday’s forecast peak demand is 27,700 megawatts. Last summer, electricity usage peaked on July 17 at 25,880 megawatts.

Connecticut Light & Power also released a list of tips to conserve electricity while staying cool as the power grid is pushed to its limits.

Keeping the heat out and the cool in - Sunlight shining in windows adds unwanted summer heat to homes, making it harder to keep indoor air cool. Use blinds, shades or drapes to block the sun. Even without air conditioning, most homes will stay cooler if the windows are closed during the hottest part of the day.
Air conditioners work best in the shade - If possible, keep room air conditioners out of the sun. They run more efficiently when kept cool. Installing one in a north-facing window is usually ideal. If you are shopping for an air conditioner, look for the Energy Star label to ensure the unit is energy efficient.
Raising the temperature lowers the bill - Keeping air conditioner thermostats set at a moderate temperature saves energy. Because air conditioners also remove humidity from the air, they'll help keep you cool even with a higher temperature setting.
It's a great time to cook outside - Cooking indoors will heat your home, cooking outdoors won't. Today's gas grills are more than just a way to cook traditional summertime favorites - they make great ovens, too.
Fridges and freezers are big-time energy users - To make the most of your energy dollars, be sure to vacuum their coils regularly, close their doors quickly and keep them well-stocked.
Conserving energy - It's always best to shut lighting and appliances off when not needed. Incandescent lights, when on, add heat to your home.

For more information, visit this CL&P website.

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