#United States #Duke Energy #Energy Savings #Charlotte, NC #Power Grid

Duke Energy's Strategies for Maintaining Power Supply During Extreme Cold

As the Carolinas face an extended stretch of frigid temperatures, Duke Energy is proactively managing its power grid to meet increasing demand from its customers. The utility company is implementing a comprehensive approach ensuring stability and reliability in energy supply, particularly as forecasts suggest a peak in demand.

Key Strategies in Play

Ben Harrison, Duke Energy's vice president of grid operations, underscores the necessity of maximizing resources during these peak times. "When temperatures are this cold for an extended period, it’s crucial to utilize every program and resource available based on the soaring demand we’re witnessing across the system. This includes the operation of all available generating assets, customer energy-saving programs, and the acquisition of additional power as necessary," said Harrison.

Year-Round Preparation

Duke Energy’s commitment to preparing for winter challenges is evident through its investments in power generation and grid fortification. Continuous efforts such as real-time analysis, predictive modeling, and essential upgrades contribute to a more resilient power grid capable of withstanding extreme weather-related challenges.

Customer Participation Programs

Duke Energy has developed a range of customer programs to encourage voluntary energy conservation. These initiatives allow residential and business customers to reduce energy consumption during peak demand periods in exchange for financial incentives. Interestingly, while Duke Energy has the option to request that customers cut back on energy use, this week it has not issued such a call. Typically, peak demand in winter occurs during the early morning hours when temperatures are at their lowest, and households are commencing daily activities.

Energy-Saving Tips for Customers

In light of the ongoing cold weather, Duke Energy advises its customers to make small adjustments to their daily routines in order to conserve energy and reduce their electricity bills. Here are some practical tips:

• - Lower Your Thermostat: Set your thermostat to the lowest comfortable temperature. A 7 to 10-degree reduction can yield savings of up to 10% a year on heating costs.
• - Adjust Water Heater Settings: Reduce the thermostat on your water heater to 120 degrees or lower—this utility typically ranks as the second-largest consumer of energy within households.
• - Utilize Natural Heat: Open curtains or blinds on sunny sides of your home to capitalize on natural warmth from sunlight, while keeping them closed during the night to retain heat.
• - Ceiling Fan Use: Run ceiling fans clockwise to push warm air back down into living spaces, thereby increasing overall comfort without needing additional heating.
• - Window Insulation: Employ heavy-duty, clear plastic sheeting or indoor window films to prevent drafts, thus enhancing home insulation.

For more information on saving energy throughout the winter, visit Duke Energy’s Winter Energy Savings webpage.

Duke Energy's Commitment to Clean Energy

Duke Energy is not only focused on immediate weather-related challenges but is also actively executing a large-scale clean energy transition. The company aims to achieve net-zero methane emissions from its natural gas operations by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions from electricity generation by 2050. Investments are being made towards enhancing the electric grid and increasing cleaner energy production, including expansion in renewable energy sources, natural gas utilization, and nuclear energy initiatives.

Overall, Duke Energy remains committed to delivering reliable energy that is both affordable and accessible to its customers even amid challenging weather conditions. Customers are encouraged to stay informed and participate in energy-saving practices to manage their usage effectively during extreme cold.

For additional insights and updates, visit Duke Energy's News Center and follow the company on major social media platforms including X, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.