AUSTIN (Talk1370.com) -- ERCOT, the state's electric grid operator, has issued a Conservation Appeal for Monday morning, Jan. 15, between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. as sub-freezing temperatures grip much of the state.
ERCOT officials said in a release Sunday evening the conservation appeal is due to expected low operating reserves "due to continued freezing temperatures, very high demand, and unseasonably low wind."
ERCOT says its forecasts indicate similar conditions are expected for Tuesday morning, though an appeal has not yet been issued.
A conservation appeal is a request for users across the state to reduce their electricity usage.
Here are some tips from the Public Utility Commission on how you can conserve energy during the winter months:
*Set your thermostat at 68 degrees or lower. Every degree of extra heating will increase energy usage by 6% to 8%.
*Dress warmly.
*Use more blankets at night.
*Set ceiling fans on reverse to recirculate the heat that builds up near the ceiling.
*Cover windows on winter nights with insulated curtains.
*Open interior blinds, drapes or shades during the day to let the sun warm your home during cooler months.
