Heat Wave Prompts National Grid Call For Reduced Electricity Use in Upstate New York

SYRACUSE, NY (07/22/2011)(readMedia)-- Due to continued high demand caused by hot weather and forecasts for temperatures to reach well into the 90s again, National Grid is asking customers in its Upstate New York market area to reduce all unnecessary electricity usage until 6 p.m. today.

The request is being made to reduce demand on utility equipment and maintain system reliability. Electricity supply to the area is adequate, but heavy demand and high temperatures could potentially challenge regional networks.

Here are some steps customers can take to reduce usage:

• Put off energy using activity –Turn off lights when they are not needed, and avoid cooking, bathing or washing clothes during this period.
• Unplug electronics – Even though your television and other appliances are turned off, electronics with little standby lights still draw electricity. Unplug any unnecessary appliances.
• Adjust the thermostat, use fans – To reduce the energy use of your air conditioning systems set the thermostat as high as health and comfort will permit. Using fans in occupied rooms, instead of air conditioning, also reduces energy usage.
  

Other useful energy conservation tips are available at www.powerofaction.com or at www.nationalgridus.com.

National Grid is an international energy delivery company. In the U.S., National Grid delivers electricity to approximately 3.3 million customers in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York and Rhode Island, and manages the electricity network on Long Island under an agreement with the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA). It is the largest distributor of natural gas in the northeastern U.S., serving approximately 3.4 million customers in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York and Rhode Island. National Grid also owns over 4,000 megawatts of contracted electricity generation that provides power to over one million LIPA customers.

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