Cold spell: Hydro-Québec asks for the public's cooperation to reduce power consumption during peak hours

MONTREAL, Jan. 2, 2014 /CNW Telbec/ - Hydro-Québec is anticipating high power consumption due to the extremely cold weather conditions prevailing now and forecast for the next few days. System demand is expected to be close to 38,000 MW. The last historical peak was 38,797 MW and occurred on January 23, 2013.

Hydro-Québec has implemented the various means at its disposal to ensure continuity of service. However, in order to give the utility greater operating margin, Hydro-Québec is asking for cooperation from the public to reduce power consumption during peak periods.

Hydro-Québec is asking for reduced power usage during these peak hours:

• Thursday, January 2: from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Friday, January 3: from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Here are the most effective ways to reduce consumption:

• Lower the thermostat temperature by a degree or two (Celsius) in all rooms, especially those that are unused.
• Postpone using major appliances (especially dryers and dishwashers) by a few hours.
• Limit if possible the use of hot water.

Hydro-Québec will reduce heating and lighting in all its administrative buildings in Québec, and the lights on the logo and the mural of Mousseau at head office will be turned off.

Hydro-Québec sincerely thanks all customers for their cooperation and will keep them informed of any new developments.

SOURCE: Hydro-Québec

Media Relations
[phone]