Energy demand due to cold temperatures
Just some tips on helping with demand for energy during this cold snap. Have implemented the ones I can that I hadn't already thought of. Please stay warm and safe and bundle up real good if need to go out. Got my tips from this progressengergy site.
http://www.progress-energy.com/aboutus/news/article.asp?id=17722
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (Jan. 2, 2008) -- With below-freezing temperatures expected Thursday, Jan. 3, 2008, Progress Energy Florida is expecting possible record energy demand between 7 and 8 a.m.
The last all-time record for peak energy use was set Jan. 24, 2003, when Progress Energy customers used 10,076 megawatt-hours of electricity.
Progress Energy has a well-rehearsed plan for responding to unusual weather. Workers are making final preparations at plants, crews will arrive early to address any potential problems on the system, and all of the company's power plants are expected to be available Thursday morning.
"Progress Energy Florida expects to have enough electricity to meet the demand," said Michael Lewis, senior vice president of Energy Delivery for Progress Energy Florida. "This is the type of weather that reminds everyone of the importance of energy efficiency. Being energy-efficient is a great way to save money and reduce energy use. It is also a time when we especially appreciate our customers who participate in the EnergyWise program."
Participation in EnergyWise is a smart, simple way to help manage Florida's growing energy use. EnergyWise enables Progress Energy to temporarily cycle off power to select electrical equipment -- such as central heating and air units, water heaters and pool pumps -- during periods of peak community demand. In exchange, customers receive monthly credits on their electric bill that can total more than $145 annually.
Progress Energy Florida offers its customers some of the nation's most innovative and aggressive energy-efficiency programs. The company offers these tips to help keep warm while using less electricity:
¿ Keep the thermostat between 68 and 70 degrees. Each degree above 70 adds 3 to 6 percent to the heating portion of the bill.
¿ For heat pump users, set the thermostat to a constant setting and leave it there, and make sure drapes and furniture are not blocking air registers or returns.
¿ Limit the use of unnecessary appliances -- such as washing machines or dishwashers -- during the peak period. When possible, use efficient microwave ovens for cooking instead of stoves.
Other steps customers can take to ensure energy efficiency include:
¿ Check filters -- dirty filters can increase operating costs by 20 percent.
¿ Caulk any space around windows and other places where air leaks.
¿ If your home has a fireplace, be sure the damper fits tightly, and close it when the fireplace is not in use. Add a glass fireplace screen.
¿ Cover bare floors with carpet or rugs.
¿ If possible, remove window air conditioning units in winter. Otherwise, install an inexpensive air conditioner cover to stop drafts coming through the vents.
¿ Use insulated or heavy curtains on windows facing the north side of the house. Keep curtains and shades closed at night and on cloudy days.
¿ Wrap your water heater with an insulation blanket, available at hardware stores. It can help you save about $20 a year on energy costs.
http://www.progress-energy.com/aboutus/news/article.asp?id=17722
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (Jan. 2, 2008) -- With below-freezing temperatures expected Thursday, Jan. 3, 2008, Progress Energy Florida is expecting possible record energy demand between 7 and 8 a.m.
The last all-time record for peak energy use was set Jan. 24, 2003, when Progress Energy customers used 10,076 megawatt-hours of electricity.
Progress Energy has a well-rehearsed plan for responding to unusual weather. Workers are making final preparations at plants, crews will arrive early to address any potential problems on the system, and all of the company's power plants are expected to be available Thursday morning.
"Progress Energy Florida expects to have enough electricity to meet the demand," said Michael Lewis, senior vice president of Energy Delivery for Progress Energy Florida. "This is the type of weather that reminds everyone of the importance of energy efficiency. Being energy-efficient is a great way to save money and reduce energy use. It is also a time when we especially appreciate our customers who participate in the EnergyWise program."
Participation in EnergyWise is a smart, simple way to help manage Florida's growing energy use. EnergyWise enables Progress Energy to temporarily cycle off power to select electrical equipment -- such as central heating and air units, water heaters and pool pumps -- during periods of peak community demand. In exchange, customers receive monthly credits on their electric bill that can total more than $145 annually.
Progress Energy Florida offers its customers some of the nation's most innovative and aggressive energy-efficiency programs. The company offers these tips to help keep warm while using less electricity:
¿ Keep the thermostat between 68 and 70 degrees. Each degree above 70 adds 3 to 6 percent to the heating portion of the bill.
¿ For heat pump users, set the thermostat to a constant setting and leave it there, and make sure drapes and furniture are not blocking air registers or returns.
¿ Limit the use of unnecessary appliances -- such as washing machines or dishwashers -- during the peak period. When possible, use efficient microwave ovens for cooking instead of stoves.
Other steps customers can take to ensure energy efficiency include:
¿ Check filters -- dirty filters can increase operating costs by 20 percent.
¿ Caulk any space around windows and other places where air leaks.
¿ If your home has a fireplace, be sure the damper fits tightly, and close it when the fireplace is not in use. Add a glass fireplace screen.
¿ Cover bare floors with carpet or rugs.
¿ If possible, remove window air conditioning units in winter. Otherwise, install an inexpensive air conditioner cover to stop drafts coming through the vents.
¿ Use insulated or heavy curtains on windows facing the north side of the house. Keep curtains and shades closed at night and on cloudy days.
¿ Wrap your water heater with an insulation blanket, available at hardware stores. It can help you save about $20 a year on energy costs.