REVISED – Excessive electricity usage due to the severe cold temperatures has led to rolling power outages throughout the Midwest, from Texas to Montana.
OG&E first issued a statement saying they would for the first time in its history, be implementing temporary power service interruptions for customers across its area. They have now rescinded this saying this may not be necessary. They are asking everyone to please conserve electricity where possible.
In a phone interview, Jeff Hyatt with Cimarron Electric, told All About Hennessey, “As of right now Western Farmers Electric that supplies us with power is saying they have enough capacity to carry us. But this could change at any time.”
A rolling blackout is a way for a power company to conserve power by turning off one circuit at a time. This is generally done for about 1 hour at a time. Then, they move to another circuit and continue this until more capacity is found or the load reduces.
Oklahomans can take simple conservation steps:
Lower thermostats to 68 degrees or below if health permits
Avoid using major electric appliances such as stoves, dishwashers and clothes dryers
Turn off lights and unplug small appliances that you do not need or are not using
Businesses should minimize the use of electric lighting and electricity-consuming equipment as much as possible
Large consumers of electricity should consider shutting down or reducing non-essential production processes
