An energy shortage is predicted for today by Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), the operator of the regional power grid covering 15 central states in the U.S. and part of Canada. CWLP alerted its customers Thursday that voluntary electric conservation may be requested in the event of a regional energy emergency. The move is an effort to avert an energy shortage and imbalance in the grid. The advisory is in place until 9 p.m. Thursday. If demand is greater than available power, rolling blackouts may occur, according to CWLP.

If MISO upgrades its emergency, CWLP will then issue a “Conservation Warning” and ask its customers, without health or safety concerns, to voluntarily reduce electric usage.

Per CWLP, MISO anticipates challenging conditions during heat waves and during generation outages and other events that can cause energy shortages. Advisories and planning for conservation are part of emergency procedures to ensure all entities can keep the power flowing.

Here are some conservation steps CWLP electric customers could implement for energy emergencies during peak hours and hot temperatures:

  •  Set thermostats to 78 degrees or higher.
  • Use floor or ceiling fans to cool off in occupied rooms.
  • Turn off lights where not needed and postpone major appliance use, such as with washing machines, dryers and dishwashers.
  • Turn off and disconnect electronics not in use such as computers, printers, copiers, coffee makers, televisions and charging devices.
  • Shade west-facing windows in the afternoon to reduce solar heat gain.
  •  Turn off stand-alone dehumidifiers and electric water heaters at the source or by circuit breaker.
  • Turn off or unplug water fountains that dispense chilled water.
  •  In larger buildings, increase chilled water supply temperature by up to 5 degrees.
  • Reduce lighting for showroom displays and exterior signage wherever possible.
  • Shut down all non-essential electric pumps, motors, processes, etc. and/or facilities where possible.