AMARILLO, TEXAS
According to a release sent to Pronews 7 by Xcel energy, the company is asking all of it's customers to conserve electricity.
The release says that regional utility systems are struggling to meet high demand with fewer resources.
Xcel isn't planning on rotating outages at this time, but is warning that conditions in and out of our region could affect their ability to provide energy.
They state that natural gas supplies to local power plants have been reduced because of supply and delivery issues, and high electrical loads are straining their system.
There should be enough resources to meet demand, but the release warns that if gas supplies are further interrupted, or if their power capacity is reduced because of the cold they might not be able to keep up with demand.
Xcel is asking you to turn off any unneeded lights, computer, and appliances.
In addition, they are requesting you to set your thermostat to 68 degrees or lower at your home.
A statement included in the release says: "We take our responsibility to supply energy to our customers very seriously," said Riley Hill, president of Southwestern Public Service Company, an Xcel Energy company. "Our customers have helped us through similar situations in the past, and we look to them today to help us maintain the integrity of their electricity system. Turning off all lights and appliances that are not essential to health and safety will help us meet everyone's energy needs without service interruptions. We at Xcel Energy - and your friends and neighbors - thank you."
Xcel asks that you report outages by calling 1-800-895-1999. In an emergency call 911.
Visit Xcel's website for more information.
