High temps mean high energy use

Summer heat is expected to continue across the region this week, driving up demand for the reliable energy TVA and local power companies like Meriwether Lewis Electric Cooperative supply.

TVA builds margins into the system planning to help ensure the power grid remains stable and secure during high demand periods, even with the increased load and economic growth seen in the pandemic recovery.

High power demand – especially during the peak hours of Noon to 8 p.m. – directly contributes to higher future power bills so, to help save money, TVA encourages consumers and businesses to join them in cutting back usage during those hours.

“MLEC is doing its part by turning off nonessential lights and equipment and raising thermostats in our facilities,” says MLEC President and CEO Keith Carnahan. “We also have free resources to help those we serve save energy and energy dollars-regardless of the weather. We are in this together.”

Some simple ways to help reduce power use without significantly impacting your comfort:

• Turn your thermostat up just one degree and use fans to circulate air.

• Close the window covering on the sunny side of your home or office.

• If possible, avoid using ovens, dishwashers, clothes dryers and other appliances that generate heat in your home until later in the evening.

So far this month, the early summer heat wave has led to five of the top ten June peak power demands, all safely supplied through TVA’s reliable and resilient public power system. One example is June 13 when 31,311 megawatts was reached, which is the 2nd highest June power demand in TVA’s history. Another was June 16 when a new all-time record demand for the month of June was set at 31,617 megawatts.

MLEC is your member-owned source of power and information for the Middle Tennessee counties of Hickman, Houston, Humphreys, Lewis and Perry. We strive to deliver safe, affordable, reliable electricity, while helping build the communities we serve. Learn more at http://www.mlec.com.