LES Issues Power Watch

By: 10/11 News, LES Email

Updated: Tue 5:52 PM, Jul 24, 2012

Lincoln Electric System is issuing a power use watch through July 25 at 8 p.m., asking its customers to conserve energy at their homes and businesses due to high temperatures and increased energy demand across the Midwest.

While LES has adequate electricity to meet projected energy needs, the prolonged heat can result in stress to the electric delivery system, especially during the peak usage hours which is usually between noon and 8 p.m.

"Our region is experiencing very high demand due to the prolonged heat wave and high use of air conditioning," CEO and Administrator Kevin Wailes said. "We are asking customers to take additional energy conservation efforts to reduce stress on the electric system and reduce their electric bills."

Reduce electricity demand by postponing use of unnecessary lighting, electronics, electric range and/or oven, washing machine and/or dryer, dishwasher and personal computers during the periods between noon and 8 p.m. LES asks customers to consider raising the thermostat by at least 3 degrees during those same periods. A 1-degree increase can save energy, as well as 3 to 5 percent on cooling costs.

Additional measures to conserve energy, reduce stress on the system and save on electric bills include keeping window shades and blinds closed to block direct sunlight, cleaning or changing your system's air filter monthly, and using ceiling fans to enable you to raise your thermostat 3 degrees.

If the power situation becomes more critical, LES would issue a power use warning. Customers would be advised of additional energy conservation measures to implement immediately and asked to follow them continuously until the warning is withdrawn.

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