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National Grid Calls for Reduced Electricity Use in Portions of Northern Onondaga and Southern Oswego Counties

Jul 04, 2019

Precaution requested as crews continue to make substation repairs after equipment failure


National Grid is asking customers in the Brewerton, Bridgeport, Central Square, Cicero, Clay, Hastings, North Syracuse and West Monroe areas to reduce unnecessary electricity usage from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. today. The request is made as a precaution while crews continue to make repairs to a local substation after equipment failure caused a brief outage for customers last night.

National Grid’s field force successfully restored power to the 7,000 impacted customers late Wednesday and will continue to work throughout the day today at the substation. Electricity supply to the area is adequate, but heavy demand and high temperatures could potentially challenge the regional network as the work continues.

The company recommends a few simple customer actions to help reduce demand on utility equipment and maintain system reliability. These small actions, combined with those of your neighbors, can make a big difference -- and they can help you better manage your energy bill.

  • Draw blinds, shades, drapes to prevent the sun from making your home too hot.
  • Slightly increase air conditioner settings, change filters The lower your air conditioner temperature, the more costly it is to operate. For example, a 75-degree setting will cost about 18 percent more than a 78-degree setting. Set the thermostat as high as comfort will permit. In addition, check your air conditioner filter and replace or clean it, if necessary (note: for central air conditioners, check your furnace filter).
  • Consider a programmable thermostatYou could save up to $180 annually by adjusting cooling temperatures when rooms are unoccupied.
  • Turn off your pool pumpPool pumps are one of the largest consumers of household energy—second only to the air conditioning unit.
  • Fans use less energy than air conditioners.
  • Delay the use of hot water appliances like dish washers and washing machines.
  • Turn off lights when they are not needed.
  • Unplug electronics Even though your electronics, like televisions and computers, are turned off they may still draw electricity. Unplug any unnecessary electronics and chargers. In addition, using an advanced power strip on your entertainment system will reduce “phantom load” energy consumption and can save you up to $60 annually.

Click here for more energy savings and bill management tips or visit our Connected Solutions page.

Reminder to Remain Diligent Regarding Heat Stress

National Grid also reminds customers that prolonged temperatures of 90°F or higher can lead to heat-related illnesses, especially for the elderly, young children and those with chronic illnesses.  More information on heat stress can be found here.

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