Because of the extreme heat this week, ERCOT is looking for help to ease some of the demand on the state's electric grid. Leslie Sopko with ERCOT tells KTRH the grid will be under a lot of stress because of the heat for the next two days.
"We are anticipating tight conditions this afternoon and tomorrow afternoon, and so we are issuing a conservation appeal from 2-7 p.m. for the next two days," Sopko said.
Some parts of the state are going to see their highest temperatures of the year.
"This will specific impact our major urban load centers like Houston. That is driving up demand," Sopko stated.
Steps to help reduce electricity use:
- Turn thermostat up 2 to 3 degrees during the peak hours of 2 to 7 p.m.
- Set programmable thermostats to higher temperatures when no one is home.
- Use fans to feel 4 to 6 degrees cooler.
- Limit use of large appliances (i.e., dishwasher, washer, dryer, etc.) to morning or after 7 p.m.
- If you cook indoors from 2 to 7 p.m., use a microwave or slow cooker.
- Close blinds and drapes during late afternoon.
- Schedule pool pumps to run in the early morning or overnight hours; shut off between 2 and 7 p.m.