Friday, August 10, 2007

Consumers Asked To Conserve Electricity During Heat Wave

   With ever-soaring temperatures causing most area residents to seek the comfort of air conditioning, a plea is being issued for conservation of electricity.

   Temperatures have registered at record-breaking highs this week, hitting well above the 100º mark in most places. The heat wave is causing some not-so-unexpected problems, as well.

   Officials with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) issued a request this week, asking that consumers cut back as much as possible on electricity consumption – especially during peak demand hours.

   TVA officials recommend that residents set thermostats just a few degrees higher, and that they turn off lights and appliances when not in use. If you need to run your dishwasher or washing machine, they recommend that you do so only when the appliance contains a full load, and that you do so after 8:00 p.m., when electricity demands tend to decline.

   TVA reports that power demands have reached record levels this week alone. Should consumers heed the recommended conservation measures, they indicate it may allow them to save money on their electric bills, and help to ensure that TVA will be able to meet all their customers’ demands.

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