In the face of frigid temperatures striking the Mid-South, Memphis Light, Gas, & Water (MLGW) in conjunction with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is urging customers to voluntarily reduce their electricity usage during an expected peak demand period. MLGW forecasted that Wednesday's power demand could surpass the all-time record previously set in January 2024, as reported by Action News 5.
MLGW officials have suggested several measures residents can take to contribute to the conservation effort, such as turning thermostats down to 68 degrees or less, unplugging electric vehicles, space heaters, and postponing the use of large appliances like clothes dryers, or dishwashers. According to a message on their X page, confirmed by FOX13 Memphis, MLGW stated the TVA requested this action to be implemented "effective immediately."
Despite the harsh cold weather that has been affecting the region, MLGW and TVA have so far managed to avoid significant power outages, a notable achievement compared to previous cold spells where outages were more common. As of yesterday morning, only a small number of customers were experiencing power loss, with MLGW's outage map displaying just 146 without power around 10 a.m., well below previous incidents during similar conditions.
Speaking on the situation, MLGW’s president and CEO, Doug McGowen, commented, "We expect the all time peak will happen early morning, very early as everyone is getting up and getting ready and that’s across the entire Tennessee Valley, not just here in Memphis." He emphasized collective action noting, "If everybody does a little bit that all adds up and helps everybody meet the overall demand and ensures that everybody has power," as WREG reported. MLGW suggests additional ways to conserve energy include postponing the use of electric ovens and unplugging any non-essential electronic devices.
As the energy demand spike approaches, MLGW and TVA continue to monitor the situation closely, aiming to maintain consistent service throughout the potentially record-setting peak. Customers across Tennessee are being advised to heed the energy conservation measures to ensure the grid remains stable during this period of heightened usage.
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