News Release – 12/9/09

Clark Public Utilities reports record demand for electricity

December 9, 2009

Clark County consumers used a record amount of electricity this morning.

The utility reports peak demand of 1,115 megawatts between 7 and 8 a.m. That breaks a record of 1,063 megawatts set in December 1998.

High demand puts a stress on electric system lines and equipment, but only a few small outages have occurred this week.

During this cold spell, we encourage customers to use energy wisely. Here are some suggestions that could help reduce energy use:

  • Check furnace filters and clean or replace them when necessary.
  • Keep heat registers and returns clear of furniture or other objects.
  • Keep fireplace dampers and glass doors closed when the fireplace is not in use.
  • Cover foundation vents to keep your crawl space warmer.

About Clark Public Utilities
Clark Public Utilities is a customer-owned public utility district that provides electric service to more than 182,000 customers throughout Clark County. The utility also provides water service to about 30,000 homes and businesses in the Hazel Dell, Salmon Creek, Lakeshore, Hockinson, Brush Prairie, La Center, Meadow Glade, Amboy and Yacolt areas.

Clark Public Utilities was ranked highest in customer satisfaction among midsize utilities in the west by J.D. Power and Associates in 2008 and 2009.

For more information:
Mick Shutt, 360-992-3238