When outdoor temperatures soar, our electricity use increases. That’s because our air conditioners are running longer and more often to counteract sweltering outdoor temperatures. Factor in that we all tend to use electricity at the same times — in the morning and early evenings — and that equals a lot of strain on our electric grid.
At Highline Electric Association, we work closely with Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, our local generation and transmission cooperative, in resource and infrastructure planning to ensure you have the power you need whenever you flip a switch. But the electric grid is much larger than Highline and Tri-State.
In summer months, when even more electricity is being used simultaneously across the country, it is possible for electricity demand to exceed supply — especially if a prolonged heat wave occurs. If this happens, which is rare, the grid operator for our region of the country may call on consumers to actively reduce their energy use or initiate rolling power outages to relieve pressure on the grid. Highline Electric will always keep you informed about situations like this.
We work proactively with Tri-State to create a resilient portion of the grid and ensure electric reliability in extreme weather. This is accomplished through regular system maintenance, grid modernization efforts, and disaster response planning. But it takes everyone to keep the grid reliable.
To help keep the air conditioner running for you and your neighbors, here are a few things you can do to relieve pressure on the grid during times of extreme summer heat:
- Select the highest comfortable thermostat setting and turn it up several degrees whenever possible. Your cooling system must run longer to make up the difference between the thermostat temp and the outdoor temp. Pro tip: Seal air leaks around windows and exterior doors with caulk and weatherstripping. Our On-Bill Repayment Program can help you implement many energy efficiency upgrades to your home.
- Run major appliances such as dishwashers, ovens, and dryers during off-peak hours when the demand for electricity is lower. Pro tip: Start the dishwasher before you go to bed.
- Use ceiling fans to make yourself feel a few degrees cooler. Remember: Ceiling fans cool people, not rooms, so turn them off in unoccupied spaces. Pro tip: During summer months, set ceiling fan blades to rotate counterclockwise, which pushes cool air down for a windchill effect.
- Close blinds, curtains, and shades during the hottest part of the day to block unwanted heat gain from sunlight. Pro tip: Consider blackout curtains with thermal backing or reflective lining to block heat and light.
- Use smaller appliances like slow cookers, air fryers, and toaster ovens to cook meals. Pro tip: Studies have shown that air fryers use about half the amount of electricity than a full-sized oven.
As we face the challenges posed by summer temperatures, understanding the impact on energy demand is crucial for maintaining a reliable power supply. Adopt energy conservation practices during periods of extreme heat so you can save money on your electric bills, and you’ll contribute to the resilience of the grid to keep our local community cool and connected.
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Dennis Herman is the General Manager of Highline Electric Association. HEA’s mission is to provide our members with reliable, high-quality electricity and other needed services, which will improve their economic and social well-being and provide significant long-range benefits for our communities, our state, and our nation.
