Sustained Heat Could Push Power Demand to Near-Record Level

RENSSELAER, NY (07/15/2013)(readMedia)-- The New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) is projecting that sustained high temperatures forecasted for this week could push the demand for electricity in New York state to near-record levels. Peak demand for today is expected to reach 33,300 megawatts (MW). New York state's record peak demand of 33,939 MW was recorded on August 2, 2006.

To help manage demand on the system, the NYISO called for the activation of demand response programs between 1 and 6 p.m. today in the downstate region. There are more than 1,250 MW of demand response resources (programs under which consumers reduce usage) statewide. The NYISO also has notified demand response resources in all zones throughout the state that they may be activated again tomorrow between 12 and 6 p.m.

With temperatures above 90 degrees expected throughout the state and the Northeast for most of this week, the NYISO anticipates the demand for electricity could rise to near-record levels and is encouraging New Yorkers to conserve electricity.

"While New York currently has sufficient resources to meet the higher demand for electricity, it is important for all electricity consumers to follow the conservation advice of their local utility," NYISO President and CEO Stephen G. Whitley said.

Peak loads are measurements of the average total electric demand by consumers for a one-hour period. Power demand can spike sharply during extreme summer weather conditions as air conditioning and cooling systems increase electricity consumption. For example, in 2012, the peak demand of 32,439 MW was 75 percent higher than the average demand of 18,538 MW.