Power grid strained because of heat

JASPER COUNTY, Ind. (WLFI) - One major power supplier is telling the companies it supplies, like local REMCs, that the electrical grid is getting strained from the heat.

With temperatures expected to rise this week, toning down electrical usage could prevent a power outage down the road. As a result, customers are being asked to conserve energy as temperatures rise.

Stephanie Johnson with Jasper County REMC said it's nothing to worry about now, but is requesting people limit unnecessary electrical usage.

"We want to make sure the power plant generate enough electricity for the air conditioners that everybody needs on these 110 degree index days," said Johnson.

Peak usage for Jasper County REMC's 8,500 members is between 4:00 and 8:00 p.m. Tips like not cranking down your thermostat, closing curtains or blinds to block sunlight, checking your system's filter and using ceiling fans to help circulate air are suggested tips in addition to limiting usage.

"They're (fans) not going to change the temperature of the room. But they're going to wick the moisture away from your skin and that will help you feel cooler," said Johnson.

Johnson said saving as much energy as possible when it's hot out is good advice, considering other counties use the same power supplier that Jasper County does. 

"Tipmont REMC, Newton County REMC, Warren County REMC, we all have the same power supplier. The message goes out to all of your listeners," said Johnson.

Informing customers to shed unnecessary electrical usage was the first step in preventing a grid overload. Johnson said after that, large power users like factories and cattle barns would be asked to go to on-site power generation.

She said Jasper County REMC isn't even close to a rolling brown out, which is the worst case scenario.