Compiled by SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
HUNTSVILLE, AL — With intense summer heat bearing down on the Tennessee Valley, Huntsville Utilities is asking residents to cut back on electricity use during peak hours as part of a regional energy conservation effort.
According to an updated report by AL.com, “feels like” temperatures could reach 108 degrees, with heat advisories in effect and extreme conditions expected through midweek. The utility urges customers to limit energy use between noon and 8 p.m., including by avoiding use of major appliances and turning off unnecessary lighting.
The effort follows activation of the Tennessee Valley Authority’s Emergency Load Curtailment Program, a standard measure used when grid demand is forecast to surge. TVA expects demand to approach 31,000 megawatts, which is still below its all-time peak of 35,319 megawatts, set earlier this year.
Huntsville Utilities has already implemented conservation practices in its own facilities by shutting off non-essential electric equipment and adjusting thermostats, per its news release.
A TVA spokesperson told AL.com the program helps avoid service disruptions and is similar to steps taken by other utilities, including Duke Energy in the Carolinas.
Reducing power usage can also help households manage their utility bills during peak demand periods. Residents are encouraged to find energy-saving tips and updates at tva.com.