CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Extremely cold temperatures, 10 to 20 degrees below normal, are causing high energy demand across the East Coast, including the Carolinas.
Duke Energy is asking customers in the Carolinas to voluntarily reduce their energy use from 4-10 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 2, to help lessen the demand on the grid and reduce the risk of temporary power outages.
Customers can assist by lowering thermostats to the lowest comfortable setting, avoiding major appliances during peak hours, turning off unnecessary devices and lights, and charging electric vehicles midday.
“We know it’s inconvenient to reduce electric use, but it makes a real difference,” said Gerald Wilson, Duke Energy vice president of grid operations.