Con Ed reduces voltage to these 20 Staten Island communities; asks several others to conserve power

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.— Con Edison is calling on Staten Island customers to reduce their energy usage due to multiple equipment problems affecting several neighborhoods across the borough.

According to a tweet from the New York City Office of Emergency Management Monday, the utility company has implemented an 8% voltage reduction in 20 neighborhoods to protect the electrical grid while they work on repairs.

Staten Island neighborhoods under the voltage reduction are: New Brighton, St. George, Tompkinsville, Brighton Heights, Ward Hill, Stapleton, Grymes Hill, Clifton, Silver Lake, Rosebank, Fort Wadsworth, Grasmere, Concord, Arrochar, South Beach, Ocean Breeze, Midland Beach, Grant City, New Dorp, and Dongan Hills.

Residents in additional neighborhoods are also being asked to conserve energy, although no voltage reduction has been issued for them at this time.

Con Edison asks that residents in West Brighton, Livingston, Port Richmond, Castleton Corners, Sunnyside, Mariners Harbor, Bloomfield, Chelsea, Travis, Great Kills, and Richmond Valley be mindful of their energy consumption.

The voltage reduction may cause noticeable effects in homes such as flickering lights, slower or shutting-off appliances, less effective air conditioning, and refrigerators that may not maintain proper cooling temperatures if opened frequently.

Con Edison asks Islanders to limit their air conditioner use, avoiding the use of washers, dryers, and microwaves, and to charge their electric vehicle later if possible.

The company also warns residents to avoid any downed wires because they could be energized. They also noted that repair crews may be working in unmarked vehicles but will always carry identification.

New York City Emergency Management is working in conjunction with Con Edison to address the situation across all affected areas.