Electricity Useage in Ames Nears Peak Demand

Ames city officials are asking people to conserve energy today as the city approaches another peak demand record.

In July the city reported a record electricity useage of 130 megawatts, the measure of the total power being used in the city at one time. The record-breaking electric useage is especially important because new peaks increase the amount of electrical capacity needed. Regulations require the city of Ames Electric Services to furnish 106 percent of the historic peak demand through its own plant or purchases from the grid.

The demand is predicted to be the highest from 3 to 6 p.m. and the city has issued a peak alert. Ames Electric Services will implement its Prime Time Power program, which cycles off central air conditioning systems for 7.5 minutes each half hour for customers who are Prime Time Power participants. To learn more about this program or to save energy go to: www.cityofames.org/SmartEnergy.