KANSAS CITY, Mo. Utility companies in Kansas and Missouri are asking customers to save energy, as temperatures below freezing continue to affect the Middle East.
Evergy, Atmos and Spire all offered energy reduction tips, including:
- Lower the thermostat to at least 68 degrees.
- Lower the temperature of the water heater to 120 degrees.
- Disconnect electronics and turn off unused lights.
- Do not use an oven or gas stove to heat a home.
- Let tap sip to prevent frozen pipes.
- Limit the use of natural gas fireplaces.
- Install insulating curtains / screens or use weatherproofing tape.
Scott Carter, president of the Spire Missouri, said in a news release that the company’s teams are working ‘hard’ to ensure customers are safe and warm.
“We are closely monitoring the situation and although our systems remain strong, we want to work together as a community by taking temporary steps to ensure that it remains so,” Carter said.
Furthermore, Laura Kelly, Governor of Kansas, declared a state of emergency. She on Sunday announced the state of emergency, which ‘authorizes the use of state resources and staff to assist with response and recovery operations in affected provinces that meet certain criteria’, according to a news release.
Sales of natural gas costs are up to 100 times higher than normal due to the weather, according to the release, and the cost “will eventually permeate customers.”
Evergy began preparing for the icy temperature last week by ‘planning for additional fuel needs and raising 24/7 staffing levels’, enabling the company to manage current demand, according to a news release.
For more information or weather safety tips, visit Atmos’ website.