Dive Summary:
- The New York Independent System Operator said Tuesday it might activate the grid's demand response programs for a second day to reduce power usage in the New York City area.
- It activated the measures Monday as temperatures in the city reached 94 degrees F as peak demand hit its highest point for 2013 so far at a record-breaking 32,703 MW, and the heat isn't expected to budge through the remainder of the week.
- In demand response programs, utilities compensate participants for conserving electricity by raising air conditioner thermostats, turning off unnecessary lights and equipment like elevators, and using on-site generators to reduce grid demand.
From the article:
... "We are expecting to meet Tuesday's peak demand and maintain our operating reserve requirement over the peak hour," said NYISO spokesman Ken Klapp.
NYISO forecast demand would peak at 33,300 MW Tuesday afternoon, which is close to the grid's all-time record of 33,939 MW set in 2006, before industrial and commercial companies reduced power usage during the recession. ...