TVA asks customers to limit power use as demand soars during heatwave
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — As the mercury continues to stay in the 90s with ‘feels like’ temps over 100 in some places, TVA is asking all customers in its coverage area to limit their power usage.
Right now, the nation’s largest public utility has not released exact numbers on their level of demand this week, but the notice sent out Tuesday morning indicates that demand is high.
A TVA spokesman tells us
Hotter temperatures mean we will see loads above 31,000 megawatts for much of this time. Currently, the bulk electric system is stable and secure. We have suspended all non-essential maintenance to ensure the reliability and availability of generating assets.
A big step, that may be tough for some, but will have the benefit of saving you money, is to set your home’s thermostat between 75 and 78 degrees.
Take extra steps on the sunny side of your home, by making sure windows are covered and aren’t letting cool air escape.
Try to avoid using hot water wherever possible.
TVA is asking folks to “delay using major appliances until further notice,” but if that’s not possible for you, you can still help by operating those appliances during non-peak-usage hours (early in the morning, later at night).
If you have a swimming pool, turn off your pool pump.
Instead of using your oven, use a microwave to cook, or perhaps an air fryer, or outdoor grill.
When you leave a room, turn off all lights and appliances.
Use many fans to help keep air circulating. Ceiling fans should rotate counter-clockwise for optimal flow.
The TVA spokesman told us the utility has been getting ready for just this situation.
TVA has one of the most diverse power systems in America. We’ve been preparing for summer weather and high demand. This spring, TVA executed nearly 500 preventative maintenance activities at our natural gas, hydro and coal sites. These activities stemmed from lessons learned and best practices from previous summers, as well as robust inspections.
Depend on us to keep you posted as the heat and the high power demand that comes with it continues.