City Asks Residents to Save Energy as Temps Soar

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The City of Ames is asking residents to conserve electricity throughout the day and reduce the demand on electricity as temperatures could climb as high as 100 degrees.

The expected demand for electricity could break a new record or peak, according to a release from the city. Whenever a new peak demand of electricity is reached, it increases the amount of electrical capacity needed. The City of Ames Electric Services is required to furnish 106 percent of the historic peak demand by using its own generating plant and/or buying electricity. Purchases for peak load are expensive. By keeping the peak down, it reduces costs for all customers, the release said.

To reduce electric consumption during a peak alert, residents should turn off any unnecessary electrical devices, close drapes to block out the heating rays of the sun, wash dishes and clothes in the early morning or later evening, turn thermostats up 3 to 5 degrees and use fans, close air registers and doors in rooms not being used, and avoid use of the oven during the afternoon and early evening. For more information on “peak alert,” along with tips to help reduce energy demand, visit www.cityofames.org.