HIGH TEMPERATURES SET NEW ALL-TIME SYSTEM WIDE PEAK DEMAND RECORD

Implementing energy-saving tips will help minimize the impact on energy bills. 

San Antonio, TX, July 20, 2018 – Yesterday, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas reported a new all-time system wide peak demand record, reaching 73,259 MW between 4-5 p.m. ERCOT anticipates setting a new weekend peak demand record either Saturday or Sunday. Load is forecasted to reach or exceed 72,000 MW on both days. ERCOT’s seven-day forecast also shows a possible peak demand of 75,000 MW on Monday.

CPS Energy’s all-time peak energy usage record was set on August 12, 2016, when customers’ energy use reached 5,017 megawatts. Although the upcoming stretch of hot weather will challenge that record, CPS Energy is confident that their current generation capacity can withstand the demand placed on it.

With temperatures expected to soar this weekend and into Monday, customers are being encouraged to take key actions to conserve energy throughout the hottest part of the day, between 3-7 p.m.  Typically, a spike in electric consumption is seen during this time of day when area temperatures reach their highest and most people are returning home from work.

These tips will help keep energy usage low and minimize the impact on August energy bills.

• Set thermostats between 78-80 degrees and bump it up a few degrees when away from home.
• Use fans in occupied rooms.
• Turn off all lights and appliances, and unplug electronic equipment when not in use.
• Close blinds and drapes in rooms that get direct sun.
• Discontinue the use of appliances such as the dishwasher, washer and dryer during peak hours.
• Grill outside in the evening instead of using the stove or oven

Customers who have a Manage My Account (MMA) profile can see their energy consumption online through our My Energy Portal. Through this portal, customers can access additional energy savings tips and see how changes in the weather impacts their energy use. Customers who have a smart meter, can see their energy usage on a daily basis and in fifteen minute intervals.

Additionally, CPS Energy is reminding customers to keep safety in mind and only take energy-saving measures as health permits.

For more energy saving tips and energy saving resources, visit cpsenergy.com/summersavings. Get CPS Energy news as soon as it happens. Subscribe to our Newsroom or follow CPS Energy on social media.