City electric peak demand on the rise….again

ROCHESTER, MN. — The electric peak demand in Rochester could potentially be on the rise again today and into the weekend due to warm weather and high air conditioner usage. Rochester Public Utilities (RPU) recently set a new peak demand of 276.5 MW (megawatts) back on July 17, 2006.

Electrical peak demand is the greatest amount of power used during a one-hour measured period. Peak demand usually occurs between 1 P.M. and 7 P.M. During times of high electric demand, we take measures to help alleviate the spike in demand at a certain point by cycling industrial equipment in local businesses and residential air conditioning units, but also rely on customers to help reduce usage. By reducing usage during these peak times we are able to better ensure reliability and purchase less power.

Customers are asked to make adjustments in their electricity consumption if possible.

Suggested electricity saving tips:

- Set your thermostat at 78º F or higher
- Avoid using large appliances between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m.
- Turn off all unnecessary electric equipment including computers, home electronics, and small appliances
- Minimize the use of unneeded lighting and use natural light instead
- Businesses can turn off all unneeded processes, office equipment, and reduce lighting

During times of high temperatures there is a strain put on the electric distribution and can be more strenuous on areas with temporary infrastructure in place for road construction; such is the case south of highway 52 and South Broadway. The current infrastructure is a temporary situation and will be rebuilt to better meet customer needs after road construction is complete. For customers living in this area, we ask that they make any or all of the suggested usage adjustments to ensure adequate electricity distribution in that area.

For more information visit www.rpu.org or call 507-280-1500.

About Rochester Public Utilities

As the municipal utility of Rochester, Minn., for more than 110 years, RPU provides high-quality and reliable electricity to over 45,000 customers. Water customers number more than 34,000. RPU continually investigates innovative technologies to help customers realize the best value from the services they receive. Current initiatives include fuel cell research, wind power, and photovoltaic offerings.

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