Given the high temperatures across the state, CPS Energy is providing resources to the community to encourage energy conservation. These resources include a color-coded conservation guide that uses simple tips to conserve energy and control energy use.
The color-coded conservation levels align directly with the anticipated demand for energy that day and outline simple steps everyone can take for everyday conservation, said Dana Sotoodeh, CPS Energy public relations manager.
The energy conservation levels and colors are updated daily. Sotoodeh said most days are green days and call for everyday conservation. If more conservation is needed during peak energy demand, CPS will declare a yellow day and ask the community to conserve more during the peak hours of 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.
If ERCOT, the statewide grid manager, declares grid reliability is at risk, CPS will issue an orange or red alert.
The following energy-saving tips are provided by CPS Energy:
- Set thermostats to 78 degrees if it is safe for you and your family to do so.
- Utilize fans; they can make rooms feel 4 to 6 degrees cooler.
- Unplug electronics when not in use.
- Cook on an outdoor grill, if possible.
- Replace air filters every two weeks.
- Avoid using large appliances such as ovens, washers, dryers and dishwashers during the peak demand hours of 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Charge electric vehicles after 10 p.m.
Each day, CPS Energy will communicate the color-coded level to our community. Sotoodeh said CPS provides this information on a variety of channels, like their website, social media, billboards around the city and at their walk-in centers.
For more information about conservation and CPS Energy, visit their website at cpsenergy.com, or call them at 210-353-2222.