National Grid asks customers to try to reduce electricity usage
Photo by Tom Rivers: Skip Stratton drives a tractor in Saturday’s Barre Bicentennial Parade when temperatures topped 90.
Press Release, National Grid
Due to high energy demand caused by this week’s extreme heat and humidity, National Grid is asking upstate New York customers to reduce unnecessary electricity usage for the remainder of the week. Electricity supply to the area is adequate, but continued heavy demand and high temperatures could pose a threat to network reliability.
The company recommends a few simple customer actions to help reduce demand on utility equipment and maintain system reliability. These small actions, combined with those of your neighbors, can make a big difference – and they can help you better manage your energy bill.
• Draw blinds, shades, drapes to prevent the sun from making your home too hot.
• Slightly increase air conditioner settings, change filter, use fans – The lower your air conditioner temperature, the more costly it is to operate. For example, a 75-degree setting will cost about 18 percent more than a 78-degree setting. Set the thermostat as high as comfort will permit. In addition, check your window air conditioner filter and replace or clean it if necessary. If your home has central air conditioning, check the condition of the furnace filter and replace it if dirty. Using fans instead of air conditioning also reduces energy usage.
• Consider a programmable thermostat – You could save up to $180 annually by adjusting cooling temperatures when rooms are unoccupied.
• Turn off lights when they are not needed.
• Delay the use of hot water appliances like dish washers and washing machines.
• Unplug electronics – Even though your electronics, like televisions and computers, are turned
off they may still draw electricity. Unplug any unnecessary electronics and chargers. In addition, using an advanced power strip on your entertainment system reduces phantom load energy use and can save you up to $60 annually.
• Turn off your pool pump – Pool pumps are one of the largest consumers of household energy—second only to the air conditioning unit.
