Avista Asks Customers To Curb Use

Thu., July 6, 2000

By Kristen Kromer kristenk@spokesman.com

With summer in full swing, officials at Avista Utilities are asking electric customers to voluntarily reduce their use of air conditioning and other large electrical appliances from 4-7 p.m.

Earlier this year, the Northwest Power Planning Council predicted this region faces a 1-in-4 chance of blackouts or brownouts during the next four years unless new generation plants are added to support the region’s growing population.

Voluntary energy conservation can help prevent shortages, so officials offer the following conservation tips:

Run air conditioners, dryers and other large appliances during early morning and late evening hours

Keep blinds and drapes closed during the hottest part of the day to block the sun’s heat

On hot days, cook outdoors, use a microwave oven or prepare cold meals to avoid excess heat in the kitchen

Remember that room air conditioners are generally least efficient if they have to cool more than one room at a time

Replace air conditioning filters frequently and make sure central air conditioning units are clear of debris.

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