As cold gripped the region and Appalachian Power crews worked to restore service to more than 36,000 customers as Christmas loomed, the company explained that the icy temperatures have put a tax on the grid.
ApCo asked users to reduce electricity use by lowering their thermostats, postponing the use of major electrical appliances like stoves, dishwasher and clothes dryers and turning off non-essential lights and appliances.
The company asked for reductions through Christmas morning to ensure adequate power supply.
“We are actively working with PJM and other regional utilities to minimize the impact of this event on our customers,” said Aaron Walker, Appalachian Power president and chief operating officer. “We understand that cutting back on electricity use can be inconvenient and uncomfortable, especially during the holidays. This is a necessary step to prevent broader power interruptions, and we appreciate our customers’ efforts.”
If further emergency action is required to reduce the load on the electric system, PJM would direct the company to begin grid protection power outages to parts of its service territory. These outages will be brief and intermittent whenever possible to limit the impact on customers.
The action will only be taken if necessary to avoid widespread power loss and to prevent long-term damage to the regional electric system.
Customers should be prepared for the possibility of temporary electric service outages if further emergency action is required. Please check with elderly or disabled family, friends and neighbors to ensure they are okay and have a plan for possible outages.
