Cold spell: Hydro-Québec asks its clients to continue their efforts in reducing power consumption during peak hours and thanks them for their cooperation

MONTREAL, Jan. 3, 2014 /CNW Telbec/ - Hydro-Québec asks its clients to continue their contribution in reducing electricity consumption in this time of peak demand caused by the cold weather. The preliminary evaluation of the peak recorded on Thursday evening around 5:15 p.m. was 38,750 MW, just short of the historical peak of 38,797 MW set on January 23, 2013. Friday morning at 8:40 a.m., Hydro-Québec estimated that electricity demand reached 36,940 MW.

Hydro-Québec expects that consumption will continue to be high on Friday evening, where, according to its forecasts, Québec's needs will exceed 37,000 MW.

To give the utility a greater operating margin, Hydro-Québec is asking for continued efforts to reduce power consumption for the Friday, January 3 peak period between 4 p.m. and 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.
• Turn off Christmas lights.
• Limit the use of hot water as much as possible.

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

SOURCE: Hydro-Québec

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