HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Although named the Tennessee Valley Authority, the TVA services more than just those living here in The Valley.
"Over 10 million people depend on us, across seven states and right there in North Alabama," said TVA Spokesperson, Scott Fiedler.
But due to the ever-increasing growth taking place here, "we're actually growing six times faster than the national average." The TVA has had to work harder to keep up with those growing needs, "that means we have to be ready to prepare for the future and ensure electricity is available years from now," said Fiedler.
Especially during these hot summer months because when temperatures increase, use of the power grid that powers all of our electricity here in The Valley, increases as well.
"In general, temperature plays a role in electricity usage. So when it's really hot, like it's going to be this week, or when it's really cold in December and January, every 10th of a degree is about 300 megawatts. So, the focus here at TVA is looking at Mother Nature, looking at the weather, and then matching up the generation needs for the amount of power we think we're going to need," said Fiedler.
He shares some of the basic tips you can put in place to make sure the power grid doesn't overwork itself as a collective but the plus side is, it can also help you individually, especially when it comes to your pockets:
- Set your thermostat a little higher — every degree above 76 degrees can save up to three percent on your power bill.
- Make sure your air conditioner filter is clean — a dirty filter means the air conditioner won’t get as cool and uses more power than necessary.
- Use ceiling and floor fans to keep air moving in your home — they use a lot less power than setting your air conditioner lower.
- Keep blinds and curtains closed during the day — this helps keep the heat of the sun from coming in while adding a little more insulation to keep cooler air in your home.
- Consider using your gas or charcoal grill outside for cooking rather than your stove or oven, which will heat up your home. Or use your microwave, which is faster and uses less power.
- Avoid using your dryer or dishwasher between noon and 8 p.m. — it keeps that extra heat from entering your home during the worst parts of the day.
- Unplug any unused or unnecessary electronic devices — even when they are turned off, they still are generating heat