SaskPower established a new record for power consumption with the return to colder seasonal temperatures on Jan. 11.
Saskatchewan’s new record peak load reached 3,640 megawatts (MW) at 5:31 p.m. on Monday. Last year’s peak of 3,628 MW was set on Jan. 8.
“We’ve had a relatively mild start to winter this year, but as expected we continue to set new records for power consumption,” said Mike Marsh, SaskPower president and CEO. “In order to make sure our customers keep having access to the reliable cost-effective power they depend on, we’ll continue to work hard to renew our equipment and bring innovative power supply options to Saskatchewan.”
New peak records have been set in 2007, 2008, 2009, 2012, 2013, 2014 and twice in 2015.
Customer numbers continue to climb for SaskPower. In 2014 more than 8,300 new residential, commercial and industrial customers were added.
To lighten the load and curb power bills this winter, SaskPower’s customers have the power to save by turning down thermostats, by even a few degrees which can make a big difference and can save up to two per cent on heating costs if the temperature is turned down for just eight hours.
Using a car plug-in with a timer, also helps. Most vehicles only need to be plugged in for about four hours. This can save about $25
per year.
Turning out lights, also helps. Due to shorter days, interior lights in the home are on longer, but just remember to turn them off when leaving a room. Cutting down on power by using LED light bulbs also helps.
Customers with equalized payments should keep an eye on their bills and any balance being carried, to avoid one large bill at the end of the year.
