Press Release

PUC Reminds Consumers to Conserve Energy, Provides Summer Heat Wave Tips

Published on 8/1/2006

Filed under: Electric Gas Water and Wastewater Telecommunications Transportation and Safety

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today reminded consumers to conserve energy especially this week with extreme heat and humidity.

            “During times of extreme heat, it’s not only important for residents to keep cool, but to do their part to help conserve electricity,” said PUC Chairman Wendell F. Holland. “Peak electricity usage occurs during the day when air conditioning usage is at its highest. Consumers can flip the switch on energy usage and reduce that peak by using the microwave instead of the oven or using appliances such as dishwashers and clothes dryers very early morning or very late evening.”

            The PJM Interconnection also has called for conservation measures. PJM is the electric grid operator for Pennsylvania, 12 additional states and the District of Columbia. PJM coordinates the movement of the electricity that serves more than 51 million people.

            In May, PJM testified before the Commission on plans to meet the demand for electricity throughout the Commonwealth during the summer months, particularly at peak times. Peak times are between 3 and 7 p.m. Demand for electricity is expected to reach a new all-time peak record Tuesday as the excessive heat and humidity continue.

           While PJM expects to have enough electricity to meet customers’ usage, conserving electricity provides an additional cushion to ensure adequate power supplies.

            Tips to avoid the summer heat and humidity are:

• On hot and humid days, set your thermostat at 78 degrees when you are home and 85 degrees or off when you are away for long periods of time;
• Keep drapes closed and shades drawn. The amount of energy required to cool your home will be considerably less;
• Replace filters monthly for maximum benefit and check air and return vents on a regular basis to keep circulation air paths clear; and
• Relax in rooms that do not receive direct sunlight.

            Before a heat wave, learn the terms used by the National Weather Service:

• Heat Warning – Life threatening heat is occurring, imminent or highly   likely;
• Heat Advisory – High and potentially dangerous values of heat are       occurring, imminent or highly likely; and
• Heat Watch – Excessive heat is possible in the next day to two.

            During a heat wave, there are easy ways to stay healthy and safe:

• Older adults and people with chronic health problems should stay indoors during a heat wave and in the coolest available place;
• Drink plenty of water even if you do not feel thirsty. Your body needs water      to keep cool;
• Avoid alcoholic beverages and caffeinated beverages, they make the heat’s effects on your body worse;
• Strenuous activity should be reduced, eliminated or rescheduled to the coolest time of the day; and
• Caution should be used when operating fans in closed rooms so as not to                  simulate a convection oven. Windows should be opened and a fan used to exhaust heat from the area.

            Consumers can view our Summer Heat Wave fact sheet on the PUC Web site.
            The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission ensures safe, reliable and reasonably priced electric, natural gas, water, telephone and transportation service for Pennsylvania consumers, by regulating public utilities and by serving as stewards of competition.

            For recent news releases, or more information about the PUC, visit our Internet homepage at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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  717-787-5722