High temps drive up electrical use

Posted: Jul 18, 2011 5:24 PM by Andy Koen

It's shaping up to be the hottest week of the year and utility managers say we are are also using the most energy that we have in 2011. With temperatures in the high 90's and 100's a spokesman for Colorado Springs Utilities says their customers will use over 800 megawatts of electricity each day this week. Steve Berry with CSU says the all time peak usage was recorded in August of 2007 at 863 megawatts.

As a company, CSU is encouraging customers to conserve electricity by turning off or turning down home air conditioners while at work. At home they suggest setting the temperature to 78 degrees and using ceiling fans to keep cool.

"The less strain that we can put on our coal fired power plants, the less strain that we can put on our electric production locally, the better for the customer," Berry said. "It's better for the environment, it's better for long term cost management."

He adds that Colorado Springs Utilities is able to generate a majority of its own power which keeps electricity costs in check.

"We don't have to worry about the uncertainty of going out on the market and buying power," said Berry. "For the most part were able to handle these spike locally and insulate the customers from any negative impacts."

Customers can further reduce their electrical use by upgrading their windows and appliances. Click here more information on how to apply.