Dominion Virginia Power sets new peak demand record

While Dominion Virginia Power set a new record for peak demand for electricity, the company confirms that it has adequate supplies for summer needs.

On Friday, July 22, the 2.4 million customers of Dominion Virginia Power set a new all-time record peak demand for electricity. Between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m., a total of 20,061 megawatts of electricity was consumed, one megawatt supplying enough electricity for some 250 households. The previous summer peak record of 19,688 megawatts was set on Aug. 8, 2007.

In a press release, Scot Hathaway, the company vice president-electric transmission, assures customers that Dominion has "adequate supplies of electricity and transmission capacity" to meet demand, even with the ongoing summer heat wave. He does "encourage customers to use electricity prudently and to take measures that allow them to save money while remaining safe and comfortable."

Some of the hot weather safety measures advised by Dominion include avoiding strenuous outdoor activity and staying indoors in a cool place when temperatures are at their highest. Wear cotton clothing when you must be outside, and keep pets inside, with plenty of water.

Lower your electric bills and keep your home comfortable by using hot water late or early in the day, raising your thermostat to 78 degrees, and using a microwave instead of stove if possible. Keep all unnecessary lights switched off and the drapes closed, especially during the hottest parts of the day, and use fans to circulate air.

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