LIPA: 'Use Energy Wisely' During Heat Wave

With forecasts calling for hot and hazy temperatures exceeding 90 degrees, the Long Island Power Authority reminds customers to use electricity efficiently as a way to conserve energy and avoid spiking bills.

“LIPA has enough capacity available to meet the projected peak demand for the forecasted hot and humid stretch which is expected to average about 5300 MW over the next three days," said LIPA Chief Operating Officer Michael D. Hervey.

“Given LIPA's on- and off-island resources along with significant investments in our transmission and distribution system, LIPA is in good shape to meet the electrical demands during this heat storm,” he said. “However, we remind our customers to use energy wisely over the next few days to help keep their energy bills down.”

To use energy efficiently during periods of high heat and humidity, LIPA customers should:

• Put air conditioners on timers, don't let them run when not at home;
• Set air conditioners at 78 degrees;
• Use fans to circulate cool air, which helps cut air conditioner use;
• Set refrigerators and freezers at most efficient temperatures; and
• Run major appliances such as clothes and dishwashers in the morning or late evening to avoid the peak demand hours of 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.

High temperatures and high electric demand can sometimes cause scattered heat-related outages. LIPA will have extra crews available to address those heat-related outages in a quick and safe manner. In addition, LIPA advises that conserving electricity will help reduce the potential for outages.

Customers who experience an outage should call 1-800- 490-0075 or can visit LIPA’s Storm Center online at http://www.lipower.org/stormcenter.