During the extreme cold days of winter and even hot days of summer, the City of West Plains encourages power customers to participate in any peak alerts that may occur. A peak alert means the city demand for electricity may be reaching a new peak level.
When a new peak demand is established, the energy supplier of the City will set a new level of power needed for West Plains at any given time. The City will then always pay for the new level of electricity. The higher cost in power demand could mean a higher rate to customers. Please remember, any increase in electric cost does have to be voted on by the City Council.
During winter months, peak usage usually occurs on extremely cold mornings, between 4 a.m. and 12 p.m. On these days, the City may issue a peak alert. If a peak alert is issued, there will be a message on the City of West Plains Facebook page and local radio stations. When a peak alert is issued, the City encourages the alternate use of major appliances during the issued period.
“Current forecasts are reporting a low of -2 Fahrenheit for Monday, February 15. This will place us in a key position to set a new peak. We need everyone to help avoid this by simply not using the oven or stovetop, waiting to dry clothes, or not turning up the thermostat in the morning. All of this will certainly help between 4 a.m. and 12 p.m. Our business accounts can also help during this time. If businesses could not turn up thermostats, try to conserve energy by turning off unnecessary lights, and possibly not allowing employees to turn on personal heaters will help considerably. We all need to do the little things over the next few days to help not set a new peak level,” Public Works Director Jeff Hanshaw stated.
There will be a peak alert issued for 4 a.m. Saturday, February 13 through 4 a.m. Tuesday, February 16.