Boone Electric, MLGW urge energy conservation amid extreme cold

Boone Electric Cooperative has urged its customers to conserve energy due to extreme winter weather and a maximum load on the electric grid, requesting actions such as lowering thermostats and turning off nonessential devices from 6 to 10 a.m. on February 20. Similarly, Memphis Light, Gas & Water (MLGW) has issued a call for energy conservation on February 20 and 21, citing low wind chill temperatures and persistent below-freezing conditions. MLGW suggested measures like unplugging electric vehicles and avoiding large appliances during peak hours. Both utilities are working to manage increased demand without implementing rolling blackouts, as the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) reports that recent investments have improved system resiliency. TVA has reassured customers that it does not anticipate reaching record demand levels seen previously. The coordinated efforts between local utilities highlight the significant impact of severe winter weather on energy consumption needs.