Extremely cold weather is causing high energy demand across the East Coast, including the Carolinas. Duke Energy has asked its customers in North and South Carolina to voluntarily reduce their electricity use between 4 a.m. and 10 a.m. on Monday, February 2, to help ease pressure on the power grid and lower the risk of temporary outages.
The company recommends that customers lower their thermostats to the lowest comfortable setting, avoid using major appliances during peak hours, turn off unnecessary devices and lights, and charge electric vehicles midday when 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 and purchasing 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 serves 8.6 million electric utility customers in six states: North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky. The company also provides natural gas services to 1.7 million customers in five states.
The company is currently investing in upgrades to its electric grid as well as cleaner energy sources such as natural gas, nuclear power, renewables, and energy storage.
More information can be found at duke-energy.com or through the Duke Energy News Center.
