July 18, 2013

GOV. MALLOY ASKS RESIDENTS TO HELP CONSERVE ELECTRICITY AS DEMAND SOARS DURING ONGOING HEAT WAVE

(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy is urging residents to voluntarily take steps to conserve energy as Connecticut faces a record demand for electricity during the ongoing heat wave.

"With temperatures expected to remain well into the 90s into the weekend, air conditioning and other needs are putting real strains on our electric grid," Governor Malloy said. "Everyone can play a part in helping us cope with this demand by taking a few simple steps to save electricity.

"Reducing demand for electricity can be as easy as setting the air conditioner to a slightly higher temperature, running washers, dryers, and dishwashers at night, and turning off lights and appliances that are not being used."

ISO-New England, the region's power grid operator, says demand for electricity could close in on a seven-year record as businesses and individuals cope with the weeklong heat wave.

The National Weather Service says temperatures in much of New England are expected to be in the mid to high-90s through Saturday.

Governor Malloy said the demand for electricity during this heat wave highlights the importance of energy efficiency.

"We are putting aggressive initiatives in place to make Connecticut number one in the nation when it comes to energy efficiency because that is the basic building block of a sound energy policy," the Governor said. "Efficiency brings down monthly bills for homeowners and businesses alike. In addition, efficiency brings down overall demands on and costs of the grid system by reducing the volume of power that must be produced. Through efficiency, we can shave peak demands for power, like the demand levels we are seeing now."

The Energize CT website offers tips for residents and tips for businesses on simple steps that can be taken to reduce energy use and trim costs.

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For Immediate Release: July 18, 2013

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