ERCOT Issues Power Warning, Indicates Conservation Critical

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ERCOT Issues Power Warning, Indicates Conservation Critical

ERCOT Issues Power Warning, Indicates Conservation Critical

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) asked consumers and businesses to reduce electricity use during peak electricity hours from 3 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, August 25 to avert the need for rotating outages. Consumers can help by shutting off unnecessary lights and electrical appliances, minimizing the use of air conditioning and delaying laundry and other activities requiring electricity-consuming appliances until later in the evening. Power Warnings are issued by the electric grid operator when there is a high risk that rotating outages will be needed to reduce load.

Conservation tips:

Turn off all unnecessary lights, appliances, and electronic equipment.
When at home, close blinds and drapes that get direct sun, set air conditioning thermostats to 78 degrees or higher, and use fans in occupied rooms to feel cooler.
When away from home, set air conditioning thermostats to 85 degrees and turn all fans off before you leave. Block the sun by closing blinds or drapes on windows that will get direct sun.
Do not use your dishwasher, laundry equipment, hair dryers, coffee makers, or other home appliances during the peak hours of 3 to 7 p.m.
Avoid opening refrigerators or freezers more than necessary.
Use microwaves for cooking instead of an electric range or oven.
Set your pool pump to run in the early morning or evening instead of the afternoon.
Businesses should minimize the use of electric lighting and electricity-consuming equipment as much as possible. Large consumers of electricity should consider shutting down or reducing non-essential production processes.

Consumer Assistance

Public Utility Commission Consumer Hotline – 1.888.782.8777
Office of Public Utility Counsel Consumer Assistance – 1.877.839.0363

Posted 08/25/11.