Summer’s predicted high temperatures will mean greater power needs for Tri-State consumers this year, local utility companies say.

Monday, June 19, 2000

Summer’s predicted high temperatures will mean greater power needs for Tri-State consumers this year, local utility companies say.

But even though this summer is projected to be a scorcher, those who provide the power that runs air-conditioners and other ways to beat the heat say they are ready.

Despite recent shortages in the Midwest, American Electric Power has been preparing for the summer heat.

"Supplies are tight in the Midwest, but we’re not anticipating any problems during the hot weather," said Melissa McHenry, AEP spokeswoman. "We always prepare for peak seasons."

And that doesn’t just mean sunshine, either, she added.

"These seasons always occur during the winter and summer. We always see a higher demand for electricity when the weather is either hot or cold."

Ms. McHenry said AEP always performs routine maintenance between seasons to keep up with the high demands for electricity.

"We always do routine maintenance during the spring and fall so that no plant is down for the peak seasons," she said. "We always need to provide as much electricity as possible during the months that more people are needing it to keep cool."

Other agencies such as the Ironton-Lawrence County Community Action Organization said they, too, have prepared for the summer heat.

"On June 1, our Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) began giving out air conditioners and fans to people who needed them," said Shirley Harmon, HEAP coordinator. "We started out with 20 air conditioners and 50 fans – and we’ve given them all out."

Mrs. Harmon said that even though the CAO no longer has cooling devices to offer, the agency can still provide individuals with help in paying their utility bills.

"Our summer program started on June 1 and runs through Aug. 31," Mrs. Harmon said. "We will pay up to $175 on an individual’s utility bills. If they are under the age of 60, they must bring in their disconnect notice in order to get help. If they’re over 60 years old, they do not need a disconnect notice."

Mrs. Harmon said there are ways for residents to stay cool, even if they don’t have air conditioning.

"I always tell people that it’s really important to keep their windows and shades closed during the hot weather," Mrs. Harmon said. "They should always keep a breeze going through their house by using a fan or air-conditioner – and they should keep a cold towel or washcloth on them if they don’t have an air conditioner."

AEP officials also have tips for customers to help them get through the blistering months of summer.

"People shouldn’t shut registers or close off rooms when their air conditioner or heat pump is cooling," Ms. McHenry said. "When they do that, they actually shut down the air supply to their air conditioner and use more energy."

She added that keeping windows closed tight and changing filters in air conditioners helps homes stay cool – and saves energy.

"By tightly closing all windows and doors, people close out humidity and hot air that would otherwise cause their cooling system to run longer and use more energy," Ms. McHenry said. "They should also change their filters every season, especially before summer. A dirty filter chokes off the air from a heat pump or air conditioner  causing it to use more energy and causing harm to the compressor. We’re prepared for the peak season, but people can save money by following a few of these steps I’ve mentioned."