As temperatures rise and summer activities heat up, a reliable flow of electricity is essential to ensure PenLight members stay cool and connected.
August brings some of the most extreme summer temps, which means people will be spending more time indoors to avoid the heat, and air conditioners will be working overtime. The electric grid is essentially a giant network that connects power plants, utility poles, and power lines to homes and businesses across the country, throughout our state, and to our local communities. All parts of the network must work together to ensure the flow of electricity stays balanced 24 hours, 7 days a week.
When the demand for electricity is higher than usual, power providers must ramp up electricity production—whether from coal, natural gas, wind, solar or other energy sources. With higher demand comes an increase in electricity use which is why you typically see higher bills during the hottest months.
When our area experiences extreme summer heat and a higher demand for electricity, you can help by conserving energy. There are many ways to lower your home energy use. Here are a few recommendations to help you save energy—and money—during the summer peak:
- Set your thermostat a few degrees higher. If you have a smart or programmable thermostat, adjust the settings so your cooling system syncs with the off-peak hours.
- Speaking of raising the thermostat, did you know ceiling fans can make you feel 4 degrees cooler? Operate ceiling or oscillating fans in occupied rooms to supplement your air conditioning. Be sure to raise the thermostat while fans are running for maximum energy savings. Remember, fans cool people not homes, so turn them off when you leave the room.
- Plan energy-intensive activities like laundry and running the dishwasher for off-peak hours. Use automatic timers to run hot tubs, pool pumps, water heaters, and other appliances in the same way. 16851
- Unplug electronics when they’re not in use or use power strips to manage devices.
- Close drapes and blinds during the afternoon to block unnecessary heat from sunlight.
When we all work together, our entire community benefits. Saving energy helps relieve pressure on the grid and reduces outages and/or power interruptions.