Council’s Corner

Navigating The Challenges of Hot Summer Months

As temperatures soar during the summer months in Washington City, the power grid faces significant challenges. Increased demand for air conditioning and cooling systems puts a strain on our electrical infrastructure, which can lead to power struggles and higher electricity costs. As a community, it is crucial that we work together to manage our utility usage and help maintain a stable and affordable power supply. When temperatures rise, so does the demand for electricity. Air conditioning units, fans, and other cooling devices run almost non-stop, leading to peak loads on the power grid. In June, we saw our highest peak load ever in the city’s history at 53 MW and expect July to be more. This record peak was due to both city growth and an exceptionally hot June, and we haven’t even hit our hottest months. These peaks can stress the entire system, affecting us all. Washington City is constantly seeking additional resources to support the system. Due to the age of the existing sources of electricity and environmental concerns, a significant portion of our dispatchable coal and natural gas plants are scheduled for retirement in the next 5-10 years. Additionally, drought conditions have reduced the available generation from our hydro resources. Most new resources being built are of the intermittent type, such as wind and solar, which do not provide consistent power. While great strides have been made to improve the efficiency of lighting and appliances, reducing demand for the system, the load in the West continues to grow. Moreover, there is a push to electrify transportation (electric vehicles) and other sectors (industry, heating, etc.), further increasing electricity demand. These factors combine to reduce the overall grid resource adequacy. Siting, permitting, and constructing new generation resources and transmission lines take many years to complete, adding to the complexity of meeting future power needs. So, in conclusion, as we navigate the hot summer months, it is essential for the residents of Washington City to be mindful of their utility usage. By implementing energy-saving practices and supporting community efforts, we can help maintain a reliable power grid and keep electricity costs down. Working together, we can ensure that our city remains resilient and sustainable in the face of rising temperatures and increased energy demands.

 –Craig Coats, Washington City Council

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