SCE&G Customers Set New Record for Peak Demand
February 20, 2015
CAYCE, SC – This morning’s extreme cold temperatures prompted many SCE&G customers to turn up the heat, setting a new record for electricity demand. During the 8 a.m. hour today, SCE&G’s customers used 4,970 megawatts of electricity, breaking the previous peak demand record of 4,926 MW, set Aug. 10, 2007.
Gov. Nikki Haley, in concert with the state’s utilities, had encouraged South Carolinians to conserve energy Thursday and Friday mornings to help ease the strain on the state’s power grid during the extreme cold. SCE&G President of Retail Operations Keller Kissam said customers responded.
“We want to thank our customers for collaborating with us to meet the trying weather conditions we’ve faced across our service territory over the past couple days,” said Kissam. “Thanks to their efforts and the hard work of the men and women dedicated to maintaining and operating our electric system, we’ve been able to effectively meet the energy needs of our customers during this uniquely challenging time.”
SCE&G reminds customers that there are cost-effective ways to stay comfortable and use energy efficiently throughout the year:
- Set thermostat at 68°F or lower in the winter & 78° or higher in the summer.
- Check air filters monthly; change when dirty or according to manufacturer guidelines.
- Keep HVAC vents and interior doors open to keep air flowing freely to and from the unit.
- Have your central heating and cooling system professionally serviced annually.
- Set your water heater to 120°F and visually inspect it periodically for leaks.
- Unplug appliances, lights, TVs, computers, etc. when not in use.
About SCE&G
South Carolina Electric & Gas Company is a regulated public utility engaged in the generation, transmission, distribution and sale of electricity to approximately 688,000 customers in 24 counties in the central, southern and southwestern portions of South Carolina. The company also provides natural gas service to approximately 338,000 customers in 38 counties in the state.
