Electricity companies and PSC are preparing for the heatwave

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — Local power companies are preparing for the heat wave and the Public Service Commission, which regulates utility companies, is taking steps to protect the power grid.

The Public Service Commission said the combination of high energy consumption and high temperatures would put pressure on the power grid, which could cause isolated outages. Local power companies, like National Grid, are focusing on demand for their power systems.

The PSC said what is unique about this week’s heat wave is that it is occurring earlier in the year than usual and the longer the heat wave lasts, the more stress and Damage to the electrical system is significant.

As temperatures rise, the PSC said it cools transformers by dousing them with water and shading them so they don’t overheat. Excavation work was suspended due to the heat.

At National Grid, teams will be working in the heat all week. Behind the scenes, the company is focusing on possible outages.

“We will be monitoring loads at all of our stations in Western New York,” said Ken Kujawa, National Grid regional director. “If we see any issues, if we have any outages, the teams will respond accordingly, but we are prepared and we believe we will be ready.”

As of 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, National Grid was responding to more than 12,000 power outages.

National Grid offers tips for reducing demand on the electricity grid:

• keep blinds and curtains closed during the day
• check the air filters and make sure they are clean
• National Grid said this might be difficult, but don’t turn on the oven in the early evening, when demand on their system is highest – the oven can also heat the house.

Driving crews will be asked to take frequent breaks and stay hydrated.

“They work directly in the sun from the time they arrive here in the morning until they leave at the end of the day,” Kujawa said. “We need to make sure they stay safe and we ask the public to keep an eye on them as well. If they are working in the field, they should set up cones. Please be aware that we have teams on the ground.

National Grid said they have enough workers to do the job and there is no need to call in crews, like during a winter storm or windstorm.