New Energy Use Record Set By Central Hudson Customers

For the second consecutive day, customers of Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation set a new all time peak electric use record. Between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Wednesday, August 2, customers used 1,295 megawatts (MW) of electricity as sustained heat and humidity blanketed the region. The former record of 1,268 MW was set on the previous day, August 1, 2006. Wednesday’s 24-hour usage of electricity, when 25,595 megawatt-hours (MWh) were delivered, also surpassed the 24-hour record set on August 1, 2006 of 24,440 MWh.

The New York Independent System Operator (NYISO), which oversees the state's electric grid, also reported a new all time peak use of electricity in New York State on Wednesday when 33,939 MW of electricity was used, surpassing the previous record of 33,879 MW set on August 1, 2006.

“The heat and humidity, together with increased demands for energy in the region, continued to prompt higher levels of electricity use,” said Carl E. Meyer, President and Chief Operating Officer of Central Hudson. “Hot and humid conditions are also expected today, and the demand for electricity is likely to remain high. We are reminding customers to conserve when possible to better-manage their energy use, and to help provide relief on the electrical system,” Meyer said. Steps customers can take to save energy include:

• Turning off lights, appliances, televisions, computers and other electric devices when not in use;
• Setting thermostats on air conditioners to 78 degrees, and higher during times when the home is not occupied;
• 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.CentralHudson.com, and click on “Energy Conservation."

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