TVA sets a new record power demand this past weekend

Whew, it was chilly this past weekend. Due to freezing temperatures, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) had an unprecedented demand for energy. Read on to learn about TVA’s new power demand records.

What records did TVA set?

This past weekend, we were bundled up in sweaters due to low temperatures in the single digits. Because of the cold weather, there was a high demand for power. On Friday, December 23 and Saturday, December 24, three power demand records were set by TVA:

• Highest weekend peak power demand: 31,756 megawatts
• Highest winter peak power demand: 33,425 megawatts
• Highest 24-hour electricity demand supplied: 740 gigawatt-hours

According to Don Moul, TVA’s chief operating officer, 153 local power companies and industrial customers played a key role in helping TVA continue providing energy to homes in this region.

“We appreciate the work of so many local power companies, businesses and residents to assist TVA in managing the impacts of this extraordinary weather event. We remain committed to working together to manage the demands of this extraordinary weather and still make the holidays safe and warm.”

Don Moul, Chief Operating Officer, TVA

How can you conserve power?

When it’s very cold outside, you can help power companies manage energy by following these tips:

• Close window coverings at night.
• Don’t do laundry or run a dishwasher until the warmest part of the day.
• Lower your thermostat by one or two degrees. Plus, this helps save on future power bills.
• Turn off unnecessary lights and electronics.
• When the sun is out, open window coverings on the sunny side of your home.

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