(Photo: MGN)UNDATED- With temperatures in the upper 80s and the humidity high this afternoon, Delaware Electric and Choptank Electric cooperatives are asking all of their members to voluntarily conserve or limit energy usage between the hours of 4 and 6 p.m.
According to the co-ops, energy usage is expected to peak this afternoon as members get home, start cooking and turn on their air conditioning. During times of peak energy usage, the co-ops said they will be purchasing power from the market at premium prices.
During "normal" load periods the co-ops said they pay only pennies per kilowatt-hour for power. However, during "peak" demand or energy periods when the temperatures rise, the co-ops said they can pay up to $1 per kilowatt-hour and in turn, must pass these higher costs onto their members, which may have an impact on rates.
Between the hours of 4 and 6 p.m. today, the co-ops are asking their members to turn off all unnecessary lights and appliances that may not be needed. The co-ops are also asking their members to delay major appliance usage such as dishwashers, washing machines and clothes dryers and delay any hot water usage.
Other important steps to take might include closing window shades and turning the thermostat a few degrees during these "peak" times of 4-6 p.m.
