Cold weather putting strain on power grid

Jan 8 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - The News Virginian, Waynesboro, Va.

Record low temperatures are putting a strain on power grids, local companies say. As a result, residents of Waynesboro and Augusta County are being asked to conserve energy when possible over the next few days.

"Extremely cold weather is headed our way, that will place additional demand on residential heating systems and increase the amount of electricity customers are using," Dominion officials said in a news release. "While we expect to be able to meet the demand, we also are asking customers to use energy wisely."

Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative also sent out a release, warning members that the need for additional electricity to power heating units and other items will mean higher bills for the month.

"With the current extreme temperatures, higher electric bills could result due to increase use of electrical energy," SVEC officials said in a release. "With lows hovering around zero, significant increases in electric bills could be possible. Any unnecessary electrical usage should be curtailed to a minimum during this time, as electricity supplies are tight."

Officials from both companies didn't foresee problems in meeting the needs, but offered suggestions on how to cut down on the bill by conservation.

"Electrical energy is priced when demand for the product is at its peak; therefore, a collective reduction in peak demand will result in savings for SVEC members and reduce constraints on the region's transmission and generation assets," the SVEC release stated.

Dominion suggests setting the thermostat at around 68 degrees, while keeping the water heater at 120 degrees. The company also suggested to seal any areas where you feel cold air coming into the house, such as around exterior doors, windows and outlets. The company also asked customers to turn off electric lights and appliances that aren't being used.

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