July 20, 2020

NPU encourages smart use of energy as heat, humidity hit the region.

Utility requests customers to conserve electricity as heat persists.

Norwich – As oppressive heat and humidity will continue to impact Connecticut in the days ahead, Norwich Public Utilities (NPU) is encouraging customers to be prudent when using electricity to stay comfortable over the next three days.

With temperatures likely to exceed 90 degrees in Norwich and the humidity expected to increase, NPU expects demand for electricity to be very high through the middle of the week. By encouraging energy efficiency, NPU hopes to decrease the impact on its electrical infrastructure while the high temperatures persist.

“It is important that all of our customers to use electricity wisely while keeping cool in the days ahead,” said Chris LaRose, General Manager at NPU. “It is also very important for everyone to keep an eye out for those who may have a tough time in extreme weather – particularly the elderly or infirm – to make sure everyone stays safe during this challenging stretch of weather.”

NPU is requesting that customers consider taking a simple steps today and this week to conserve electricity that will have little or no impact on their comfort. These tips include:

  • Be smart about using an air conditioner. Only run a window unit when someone is home; NPU recommends setting a central AC system to 73 degrees or higher.
  • Consider waiting until after 7:00 pm to use major appliances like a dishwasher or clothes dryer.
  • Minimize the use of appliances or devices that generate heat before 7:00 pm – computers, curling irons, hairdryers, stereos, and televisions can all add to the heat in your home.
  • Avoid using the oven to cook and consider using a stove, microwave or grilling outside.
  • Install energy-efficient lighting that runs much cooler than traditional lighting. Only about 10-15% of the electricity that incandescent lights use results in light – the rest is turned to heat.
  • Keep the sun out by installing window coverings to minimize the heat coming into a home or business.

In addition, because a portion of NPU’s annual costs for electricity are based on ‘peak demand’ days, by using energy efficiently customers can help keep their overall electric costs lower throughout the year.