City Of Ames: Temperatures And Electric Demand Climb; ‘Peak Alert' Anticipated For Wednesday

Press release from the City of Ames:

07/26/2021 5:00 PM

The continued high temperatures and humidity are creating high demand for electricity. Due to forecasted weather and predicted power demand on Tuesday, July 27, and Wednesday, July 28, Ames Electric Services asks customers to voluntarily cut back on energy use. By Wednesday, electricity consumption could create record demand on the Ames Electric Services distribution system.

“The projected demand for electricity could top our previous record, so we ask customers take steps now to reduce their power consumption particularly from noon to 7 p.m. Predicted temperatures and demand modeling for the week suggest we will implement a ‘peak alert’ by Wednesday,” said Kayley Barrios Lain, Energy Services Coordinator with Ames Electric Services.

During a “peak alert,” Ames Electric Services will implement its Prime Time Power program, which cycles off central air conditioning systems for 7.5 minutes out of each half hour for customers who are Prime Time Power participants. For joining Prime Time Power, Ames Electric Services provides participants a $20 utility bill credit each summer.

To reduce electric demand, residents can close drapes to reduce passive solar heat gain, wash dishes and clothes in the early morning or later evening to avoid appliance use during the peak demand period, turn thermostats up 3 to 5 degrees, close air registers and doors in rooms not being used, and avoid use of the oven during the afternoon and early evening. Be creative in thinking of ways to reduce electricity use. The highest demand for electricity is expected from noon to 7 p.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday this week.

For more information on “peak alert,” along with tips to help reduce energy demand, visit www.cityofames.org/SmartEnergy

This press release was produced by the City of Ames. The views expressed here are the author’s own.