As winter settles in and another Arctic blast heads toward our region, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is taking steps to ensure the power grid is ready for the increased energy demand. The cold weather will push up energy consumption as people try to keep warm in their homes.
Scott Fiedler, a spokesperson for TVA, shared that the company has been preparing for months. “We’ve spent around $430 million last year on activities to get ready for both winter and summer,” Fiedler told News 2.
Experts explain that heating our homes requires a significant amount of energy—about 20% to 30% more power. In fact, TVA has already seen an increase in energy use over the past few weeks as temperatures began to dip.
The TVA faced challenges with the recent storms, which put a strain on the power grid. “We’ve had two major storms recently: Blair at the start of the month and Cora last week. Cora, in particular, really tested our system,” Fiedler said. “Around 90% of our region experienced snow, ice, or rain, and that created some stress on the grid. But it also gave us a chance to test our emergency procedures.”
With cold temperatures predicted to stay, TVA officials are reminding customers that there are simple yet effective ways to save energy and lower heating costs.
Energy-Saving Tips to Keep Your Home Warm and Wallet Full
TVA has shared several tips for reducing energy usage and saving money during the colder months:
- Set Your Thermostat Between 65-68°F
Keeping your thermostat between 65 and 68 degrees can make a noticeable difference in your energy bill. For every degree you lower the temperature, you could save up to 3% on your energy costs. - Ensure Your Air Vents Are Unblocked
Make sure that your air vents are not obstructed by furniture or other objects. Unblocked vents allow warm air to circulate more effectively and evenly across your home. - Let the Sunlight In
Open the blinds on the sunny side of your home to let natural warmth into your space. The sun’s rays can help heat your home during the day, reducing your reliance on your heating system. - Seal Gaps in Doors and Windows
Weather-stripping doors and windows can prevent heat from escaping. This simple step will help keep the warmth inside and the cold outside. - Unplug Appliances During Peak Hours
Between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m., consider unplugging appliances that aren’t in use. This reduces the amount of electricity drawn from the grid during peak demand times. - Get Your HVAC System Checked
One of the best things you can do this winter is to have your HVAC system inspected by a professional. Fiedler advises, “Fifty percent of your energy bill this winter will go toward heating your home. If your heating system is running at its highest efficiency, you’ll save money.”
By following these practical tips, you can help ensure your home stays comfortable while keeping energy costs under control.
How TVA Is Keeping the Grid Strong
TVA has long been committed to maintaining a reliable and efficient power grid. To handle the increasing demand during extreme weather conditions, TVA continues to improve and maintain the infrastructure necessary to support its vast service area. With consistent investment in readiness programs, TVA works to ensure that homes across the region stay warm and powered during the winter months.
Despite challenges brought on by storms and colder weather, TVA remains focused on keeping the lights on and ensuring that the grid can handle the additional energy consumption. By following the energy-saving tips outlined above, residents can help reduce their energy use while also helping the TVA ensure that the grid remains stable throughout the winter.
As temperatures continue to fall, it’s clear that TVA is fully prepared to handle the impact of this Arctic blast. By combining preparation with practical energy-saving advice, both TVA and its customers can stay ahead of the cold and manage the increased energy demand.
Disclaimer: This article has been meticulously fact-checked by our team to ensure accuracy and uphold transparency. We strive to deliver trustworthy and dependable content to our readers.
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