The people who manage the distribution of electrical power from Northern New Jersey to Washington, D.C. called on consumers Wednesday to conserve electricity as the record-breaking heat wave continued to push power demands higher.
The PJM Interconnection said conservation measures are expecially needed between the hours of 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. when the demand for power to run air conditioners and fans typically peaks.
Tuesday's record heat prompted PJM to issue a voltage reduction warning, which advised transmission line managers to prepare for voltage reductions, or "brown-outs," in the mid-Atlantic region.
The warning was later cancelled as power demand dropped, and no voltage cuts were ordered.
Power demand across the PJM grid peaked Tuesday at 136,398 megawatts, the third-highest peak on record for the grid. It also exceeded the forecast high for this summer. Wednesday's demand was forecast to reach 137,783 by 4 p.m.
Consumers were urged to close curtains and blinds to keep the sun out and cool air in; delay the use of heat-generating appliances, suich as dryers and dishwashers until after 9 p.m.; set air conditioner thermostats higher if health permits; and turn off appliances and other equipment if they're not needed.
(SUN PHOTO: Doug Kapustin, 2006)