Energy Conservation May Be Requested as Extreme Cold Temperatures Continue
- AEP Ohio continues to closely monitor regional power grid conditions due to extreme cold.
- AEP Ohio and other utilities are working with PJM — the regional power grid operator — to maintain electric service across the region.
- If needed, PJM might ask customers to reduce their electricity usage.
SITUATION
AEP Ohio is closely monitoring regional power grid conditions as the extreme cold that began Sunday, Jan. 19, continues to impact our state. AEP Ohio and other utilities are working with PJM — the regional power grid operator — to maintain electric service across the region. If needed, PJM might ask customers to reduce their electricity usage to protect the power grid.
PJM issued a cold weather alert through Thursday, Jan. 23. While PJM has stated there is enough capacity to meet customer needs, we always encourage customers to use energy wisely and have shared a few simple energy-savings tips below.
This is an evolving situation. We’ll continue to keep you informed you as we’re updated by PJM and better determine the extent of the weather’s impact.
IF PJM CALLS FOR ELECTRIC USAGE REDUCTIONS
AEP Ohio will notify customers via automated phone calls and/or text messages if PJM asks customers to voluntarily reduce electricity use. Everyone plays a part in helping manage energy during times of extreme weather. When every household and business use a bit less power, it can help the electricity supply catch up with demand. Here are five simple things you and those in your community can do to reduce usage:
- Turn your thermostat down a few degrees if it is safe for you to do so. Even a gas furnace uses electricity, and adjusting the temperature in your space is one of the most effective ways to save energy and reduce heating costs.
- Avoid running large appliances like washing machines, dryers, ovens and dishwashers.
- Avoid charging electric vehicles if possible during times of energy conservation.
- Turn off lights you are not using.
- Unplug electronics like computers, video game consoles and others when not in use.
More energy tips to consider can be found here.
PJM MONITORING ENERGY GRID
PJM continues to carefully monitor temperatures and power supply conditions. The PJM team has stated that there is the potential for a new all-time winter peak electricity demand as temperatures drop. PJM manages energy supply in response to demand across the PJM footprint, which includes 13 states and the District of Columbia. PJM operators use sophisticated technology to balance supply and demand and direct the power grid 24/7 from PJM’s control rooms. They prepare multiple potential scenarios that could be affected by weather, emergency conditions or equipment failure. They adjust resource output with changes in demand and ensure that no transmission lines or facilities are overloaded. The team also watches for unusual conditions and reacts to them to protect the electricity supply. Read more about how PJM forecasts electricity demand on the PJM Learning Center.
PREPAREDNESS & SAFETY TIPS
As always, we encourage customers to stay safe and prepared by remembering to:
- Assemble or refresh an emergency kit that includes (at minimum) non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, batteries, a battery-powered radio, a first aid kit, any necessary medications, portable chargers, extra cash, blankets, warm clothes and maps of your area. If you have pets, include the food and medication they need, too.
- Develop an emergency preparedness plan for you and your family. Decide now what you’ll do if there’s an extended power outage. Also, contact family, friends and neighbors who are elderly or have medical conditions.
- Charge cell phones and tablets, as well as any backup power sources.
NOTE: We strongly encourage customers with life-supporting medical equipment to have a backup power source and an alternate plan in the event of a power outage.
STAY CONNECTED
Customers can receive the latest alerts and information and should:
HEATING CENTERS/SHELTERS
If outages were to occur and communities establish heating centers, we will communicate locations as they become available through our social media channels and the AEP Ohio Outage Map.
NEXT UPDATE
If outages occur or additional calls for conservation are issued by PJM, updates will be provided.