DWP urging customers to conserve energy during heat wave

LOS ANGELES, CA (FOX 11) - With a heat wave continuing to drive up temperatures, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power again urged customers today to conserve energy to prevent stress on the power grid.

"During times of extreme heat, we strongly encourage customers to conserve energy while they try to stay comfortable," DWP General Manager Marcie Edwards said. "Give your appliances the afternoon off, and do vacuuming, laundry and run dishwashers and other appliances after 6 p.m. when it cools down outside. Also, set your thermostat to 78 degrees or give it a rest if your health permits."

DWP officials said they expect energy demand to hit record levels for the year. The highest demand this year was 5,879 megawatts on Aug. 28, well short of the all-time peak power demand of 6,396 megawatts on Sept. 16, 2014.

DWP officials said conserving energy is especially critical between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., when use is traditionally the highest.
Customers were urged to conserve by taking steps such as:
-- setting thermostats to 78 degrees or higher;
-- limiting the use of major appliances during peak hours;
-- closing drapes and blinds to reduce heat;
-- turning off lights and other equipment when not in use; and
-- unplugging items like cell phone chargers, DVD players and microwave ovens that can use energy even when turned off.

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