ERCOT REQUESTING ENERGY CONSERVATION AS EXTREME HEAT RETURNS

  

As temperatures climb back into the triple digits over the next few days, Texans are asked to cut back on electricity usage where they can.

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) expects some parts of the state to see the highest temperatures so far this summer. It predicts temperatures to go over 100 degrees in all major metropolitan areas through Saturday.

As a result, ERCOT is urging consumers and businesses to reduce their power usage today (Thursday) and tomorrow (Friday), particularly during the hours of 2 to 7 p.m.

There are several things consumers can do to cut down on their power consumption:

  • Turn thermostat up 2 to 3 degrees during the peak hours of 2 to 7 p.m.
  • Set programmable thermostats to higher temperatures when no one is home.
  • Use fans to feel 4 to 6 degrees cooler.
  • Limit use of large appliances (i.e., dishwasher, washer, dryer, etc.) to the morning or after 7 p.m.
  • If you cook indoors from 2 to 7 p.m., use a microwave or slow cooker.
  • Close blinds and drapes during late afternoon.
  • Schedule pool pumps to run in the early morning or overnight hours; shut off between 2 and 7 p.m.

ERCOT set a new September peak demand record on Tuesday, when demand reached 68,546 megawatts between 4 and 5 p.m. This is more than 1,500 megawatts higher than the previous September record, set in 2016.

For more information, including other conservation tips, visit www.ercot.com.

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