(KTTS News) — Springfield City Utilities has been taking steps to get ready for dangerously cold temperatures this weekend and next week.
CU has asked customers who use large volumes of natural gas to find another fuel source or alter their operations to reduce demand.
Residential customers are also asked to do their part by adjusting thermostats, limiting the use of hot water, and investing in a programmable thermostat.
Weather alerts have been issued throughout the 14-state territory that receives energy through Southwest Power Pool (SPP), of which City Utilities is a member.
CU says while the potential impact of the storm system remains uncertain and near record winter electric demand is anticipated, SPP is projecting to have sufficient capacity to meet the anticipated electric demand.
Press Release
Weather forecasts for the weekend and into next week predict dangerously cold conditions. The combination of extreme temperatures, wind chills and potential winter precipitation can create additional demand for both natural gas and electric power. Ahead of this, City Utilities is taking several steps to minimize potential impacts to customers, and crews are on standby should services be disrupted.
Weather alerts have been issued throughout the 14-state territory that receives energy through Southwest Power Pool (SPP), of which City Utilities is a member. While the potential impact of this storm system remains uncertain and near record winter electric demand is anticipated, SPP is projecting to have sufficient capacity to meet the anticipated electric demand.
In an effort ensure sufficient natural gas supply, City Utilities has been in contact with customers who regularly use large volumes of natural gas, informing them that operating on another fuel source or altering business operations to reduce the demand for natural gas may be required during this period. Additionally, City Utilities, the City of Springfield and other large customers are doing their part to conserve energy, by decreasing thermostats, turning off lights and closing unused rooms and spaces.
While City Utilities has some of the lowest rates in the nation, fluctuating fuel costs, and individual customer usage patterns can lead to higher bills during extreme weather. Customers can reduce this impact by conserving energy during this time. Recommendations include lowering your thermostat, sealing drafts, limiting your hot water usage and investing in a programmable thermostat. Customers are also encouraged to take steps to prevent frozen pipes. Tips include insulating pipes, opening cabinet doors under sinks and allowing faucets to drip during the extreme cold.
Before weather conditions arrive, take time to sign-up for City Utilities’ My Account and select your notification preferences to receive real-time updates during an outage, monitor usage and find ways to save. Register for MY ACCOUNT online and download the free mobile app.
