ERCOT issues energy conservation notice for Sept. 5 & 6

TEXAS — ERCOT issued a statement Wednesday asking Texans to conserve energy use on Sept. 5 and 6 due to high demand, especially between 2 and 7 p.m.

ERCOT is expecting electricity demand to reach high levels on Thursday and Friday. So Texans are being asked to take certain steps to reduce their use in order to keep power flowing for everyone.

"ERCOT's job is to ensure power is available all over Texas," said ERCOT President and CEO Bill Magness.

According to ERCOT, some areas of Texas are experiencing the highest temperatures seen yet this summer. With triple digit temperatures expected in all major metro areas through September 7, ERCOT is urging Texans to take action.

A record demand was set on Tuesday, Sept. 3 when it reached 68,546 MW between 4 and 5 p.m. ERCOT says this is more than 1,500 MW higher than the previous September record set in 2016.

ERCOT recommends consumers and businesses take the following 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.