August 5, 2005

Central Hudson Customers Set New 24-Hour Energy Use Record

For the fifth time this summer, Central Hudson customers set a new energy use record for electricity when 23,073 megawatt-hours (MWhs) were used over a 24-hour period on Thursday, August 4, 2005, surpassing the previous record of 22,650 MWhs set on July 27, 2005. Thursday’s average peak-hour use of 1,201 megawatts (MW) of electricity did not exceed the record peak-hour use of 1,204 MW also set on July 27.

The New York Independent System Operator reported that generation reserves were adequate to meet the energy needs of the state.

“With continued heat and humidity, our customers are using more energy this summer compared to last,” said Carl E. Meyer, President and Chief Operating Officer of Central Hudson. “Electric use by homes and businesses in June and July so far average 13 percent higher than last year; and if current weather patterns are sustained, energy use in August may also exceed last year’s levels.”

Customers are again reminded to conserve energy on the hottest days to better manage their energy bills. “Raising the setting on air conditioning thermostats by one degree can save up to 3 percent on cooling bills,” noted Meyer. He advised customers to set thermostats on air conditioners to no lower than 79 degrees, and higher during times when the home is not occupied. He also suggested properly maintaining air conditioners and replacing filters regularly to keep units operating efficiently.

Other steps customers can take to save energy include:

• Turning off lights, appliances, televisions, computers and other electric devices when not in use;
  
• Using large appliances, such as dishwashers and dryers, during the evening hours, when overall energy use is less;
  
• Closing doors, windows, curtains, shades and blinds during the day to seal out the heat and block sunlight when temperatures are at their highest; and
  
• Keeping refrigerator and freezer doors closed as long as possible, and limit the time they are opened.
  
• Customers may also visit Central Hudson's website to learn more about energy conservation. Log onto www.CHEnergyGroup.com, and click onto "Customer Services," then "Conserving Energy."
  

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