CHARLOTTE, N.C. — With temperatures running 10 to 20 degrees below normal across the East Coast, Duke Energy is asking customers in the Carolinas to voluntarily reduce electricity use during peak morning hours on Monday, Feb. 2, to help protect the power grid and reduce the risk of temporary outages.
According to Duke Energy, the extreme cold is driving unusually high energy demand as homes and businesses rely more heavily on heating systems. Customers are encouraged to limit electricity use between 4 a.m. and 10 a.m., when demand on the grid is expected to be highest.
To help ease the strain, Duke Energy recommends customers take several simple steps, including lowering thermostats to the lowest comfortable setting, avoiding the use of major appliances such as washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers during peak hours, and turning off unnecessary lights, electronics, and unused plug-ins.
Electric vehicle owners are also encouraged to charge their vehicles midday, when energy demand is lower.
“We know it’s inconvenient to reduce electric use, but it makes a real difference,” said Gerald Wilson, Duke Energy vice president of grid operations. “We are taking every step to meet our customers’ energy needs, including maximizing our generation, purchasing additional power, and working with large commercial and industrial customers who have demand response programs. We appreciate our customers’ cooperation, patience, and understanding as we work to maintain reliable service across the Carolinas.”
Duke Energy officials said the voluntary conservation request is a precautionary measure as cold weather continues to impact the region.
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