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As our region experiences record-breaking summer temperatures and energy demand is at its highest, conservation is not only helpful in managing energy bills, it could be the difference in keeping the lights on statewide.
CPS Energy recently launched a color-coded conservation level notification program that outlines simple steps that everyone can take for everyday conservation and during peak energy demand days. The program also provides guidance on steps to take if state grid reliability is at risk.
The program has four, easy-to-understand color-coded energy conservation levels. They guide customers to use simple conservation tips linked to the anticipated demand for energy. Each day, CPS Energy will communicate the conservation level through the company’s website, electronic billboard messages, social media and various other public outreach efforts.
Most days will be Green Days, which call for everyday conservation actions. If additional conservation is needed during hours of peak energy demand, CPS Energy will elevate the status to a Yellow Day. Orange and Red Alerts will only be issued if the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), the statewide grid manager, declares grid reliability is at risk.
To start saving energy today, customers can:
- Set thermostats 2 to 3 degrees higher; set programmable thermostats to higher temperatures when no one is home. The optimum energy-saving temperature is 78 degrees.
- Use fans to feel 4 to 6 degrees cooler.
- Turn off and unplug non-essential lights and appliances.
- Avoid using large appliances (i.e. ovens, washing machines, etc.) during peak energy demand hours.
- Conduct pre-summer readiness maintenance to include having your HVAC system inspected by a licensed professional and ensuring your home is properly weatherized.
- Set pool pumps to run early morning or overnight; shutoff from 4-7 p.m.
CPS Energy’s new conservation program is part of a community-wide “Beat the Heat” partnership to raise awareness about how everyone can stay safe, conserve energy and water, and save money with the City of San Antonio, Bexar County, the San Antonio Water System and VIA.
For more information on our community’s energy conservation levels and tips, visit cpsenergy.com.
