KANSAS CITY, Missouri – Utilities in Kansas and Missouri are asking customers to save energy as freezing temperatures continue to hit the Midwest.
Evergy, Atmos, and Spire have offered tips for reducing energy, including:
- Lower the thermostat to at least 68 degrees.
- Lower the temperature of the water heater to 120 degrees.
- Unplug electronic devices and turn off lights not in use.
- Do not use an oven or gas stove to heat a home.
- Let the faucets drip to help prevent the pipes from freezing.
- Limit the use of natural gas fireplaces.
- Install insulating curtains / curtains or use tape.
Spire Missouri President Scott Carter said in a press release that the company’s teams are “working hard” to ensure customers are safe and warm.
“We are carefully monitoring the situation and while our systems remain strong, we want to work together as a community by taking some temporary steps to make sure they stay that way,” Carter said.
Additionally, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly issued a disaster state of emergency. She announced the state of emergency on Sunday, which “authorizes the use of state resources and personnel to assist with response and recovery operations in affected counties that meet certain criteria,” according to a press release.
Wholesale natural gas costs are up to 100 times higher than normal due to the weather, according to the statement, and those costs “will eventually flow to customers.”
Evergy began preparing for the freezing temperatures last week “by planning for additional fuel needs and increasing staffing levels 24/7,” which has put the company in a position to manage current demand, according to a press release.
For more information or tips on weather safety, visit the Atmos website.