MELVILLE / BROOKLYN N.Y. – In response to extreme frigid temperatures driving increased gas demand, combined with equipment problems on interstate pipelines that challenged the ability of suppliers to deliver adequate amounts of gas throughout the Northeast, National Grid asked its natural gas customer in Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island and on Long Island to reduce natural gas usage on Christmas Eve.

 The unprecedented, nearly 50-degree change in temperature between Friday and Saturday stressed the interstate pipeline systems that are outside of National Grid’s service area. The company’s liquefied natural gas facilities at the Greenpoint Energy Center and Holtsville allowed the company to supplement supply. The company also sought voluntary conservation measures at this critical time to keep service reliable for all customers. 

“We appreciate the support of our customers in helping to ensure the stability and reliability of the system,” said Ross Turrini, Chief Operating Officer, National Grid. “Voluntary curtailment was one of many tools used to support our system, every house and every thermostat helped.”

 National Grid’s system is operating well, however, the company continues to request non-firm customers remain on alternative fuels until further notice.

 The company would like to again thank customers for answering the call, and while they may return their thermostats to normal settings, National Grid asks that customers remain judicious and not place unnecessary load on the system with gas appliances such as fireplaces and clothes dryers between the hours of 6:00-10:00 pm and 6:00-10:00 am through Wednesday, December 28.

 National Grid is proud to serve more than 1.9 million natural gas customers in the New York Metro area and on Long Island.  Reliable energy networks are critical to the safety and welfare of those customers. 

The company would also like to thank the Governor’s Office, the Office of the Mayor, New York City Energy Management, and agency partners for helping communicate the emergency situation with customers.

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