January 16, 2018
By: Dwayne Page
An extreme cold front has moved through Tennessee that will cause temperatures to drop into the single digits overnight. The cold temperatures are expected to continue over the next few days.
The extreme cold weather has caused a critical power supply situation, and TVA is asking all electric power consumers to reduce their use of electricity as much as possible until further notice.
Voluntary reduction is needed to help ensure a continued supply of power to essential services throughout the Tennessee Valley and to avoid interruptions in service.
TVA is using all available resources, including the purchase of available power form neighboring utilities. TVA and local power companies are working around the clock to make power available to consumers.
TVA and local power companies also have cut back on power usage in their facilities by adjusting thermostats, reducing lighting and taking measures to reduce electricity consumption.
Officials of the 155 local power companies in the Tennessee Valley are asking all electric power consumers- residential, commercial and industrial- to cooperate in reducing power usage during this critical situation.
Consumers should:
Postpone using electric appliances such as dishwashers, dryers, and cooking equipment.
Reduce the use of heating by adjusting thermostats down below 65 degrees.
Turn off nonessential lights, appliances, and other electrical equipment.
TVA will continue to monitor this situation and notify the local power companies of any further notices or cancellation of curtailment warnings.
Temperatures should return to a more normal state over the next few days and this consumer alert will be terminated.
TVA and your local power companies appreciate your help during this critical situation.