(ABC 6 News) – Peak energy alerts are possible across the area this week due to extreme cold.
In fact, an alert was already issued Monday for Mower and Freeborn counties, running from 5-8 p.m.
These alerts are issued when high demand on the local power grid is expected as people turn up their thermostats to stay warm. They are less about electrical availability and more about helping the Freeborn Mower Electric Cooperative and other local power companies keep costs low for consumers.
“When you see the coldest of the cold days, the hottest of the hot days, typically market prices are very high during those hours. And so we use it as a means to lessen the burden on our ratepayers,” said Jim Krueger, CEO of Freeborn Mower Electric Cooperative.
Freeborn Mower Electric Cooperative encourage energy consumers to set their thermostats to at least 68F or lower if no one is home, close windows to help keep heat inside the building, running the dishwasher or laundry later in the day, leaving the television or gaming systems off, using microwaves instead of ovens, and waiting to charge any electric vehicles.
With more extreme cold possible later this week, additional peak energy alerts may be issued. ABC 6 News will provide updates if any are issued.
