Energy conservation tips

Given the forecast for temperatures in the upper 90s in the coming days, the demand for energy could be reaching peak annual levels as air conditioners work to keep homes and offices cool. High electric use could lead ERCOT to take steps to reduce demand, which could include energy conversation alerts or, in rare cases, rolling outages.

To avoid the need for rolling outages, residents can take these steps to reduce energy use.

• Adjust thermostats 2 to 3 degrees higher, especially from 3 to 7 p.m., and set programmable thermostats to higher temperatures when no one is home.
• Use fans to feel 4 to 6 degrees cooler.
• Set pool pumps to run early morning or overnight and shut off from 4 to 6 p.m.
• Turn off and unplug non-essential lights and appliances.
• Avoid using large appliances such as ovens and washing machines during the 3 to 7 p.m. hours.
• Minimize use of lighting and electricity-consuming office equipment as much as possible in businesses and other workplaces.
• Shut down non-essential production processes at factories and large business operations.

As we enter the hottest days of the year, taking simple these steps to reduce energy consumption will help ensure demand on the hottest days is manageable.