KUA Encourages Wise Energy Use During Extreme Cold

Kissimmee Utility Authority encourages customers to prepare for an extended period of extremely cold temperatures impacting Osceola County through Monday and urges customers to use energy wisely during critical morning and evening peak hours.

According to weather forecasts, overnight temperatures in Central Florida are expected to fall between 24 and 29 degrees, with daytime highs remaining unusually low. These conditions, not seen in the region since 2010, are driving exceptionally high electricity demand across much of the Central and Eastern United States, including Florida.

As a result, wholesale electricity costs during three-hour morning and evening peak periods could be significantly higher than normal, from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Using electricity wisely during these times helps manage system demand and reduce overall power costs for the community.

KUA and its power supply partners are working around the clock to ensure reliable service. Power plants across Florida have been winterized, fuel supplies are being carefully managed, and all available generation resources are prepared to operate during this extended cold event.

To help manage energy use and costs, KUA encourages customers to: 

• Keep thermostats at the lowest comfortable setting. KUA recommends setting heating systems at 68 degrees, then increase the temperature during non-peak hours to help heat your home.
• Take advantage of natural light and the heat it brings during the day, helping to warm your home without affecting the grid.
• Turn off pool heaters during peak hours.
• Avoid charging electric vehicles during peak hours.
• Reduce the use of hot water during peak hours.
• Reverse ceiling fans to circulate warm air. Fans should rotate clockwise at a low speed during winter.

The utility also urges customers to follow these safety tips while keeping warm:

• Use space heaters with caution. Plug heaters directly into wall outlets and never use extension cords. Keep heaters away from curtains, furniture, paper, rugs, and other combustible materials. Use only thermostatically controlled models and heat small areas only.
• Never use a stove or oven to heat your home. Open oven doors and lit burners are dangerous and ineffective as heating sources.
• Do not use charcoal grills or propane heaters indoors. These devices emit deadly carbon monoxide and are not safe for indoor use.

KUA appreciates customers’ cooperation during this weather event. Small actions taken by customers during peak hours can make a difference in managing costs while keeping the community safely powered.