CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) – Power companies are grappling with increased demand for power as much of the country experiences record and dangerous cold. Some companies have implemented continuous power outages in multiple states, and that could affect Iowans.
Our coverage partner at KCCI-TV reports that companies requesting continuous outages are part of what is called the “Southwest Power Pool,” comprised of a group of utilities in 14 states, including Iowa. Much of Western Iowa has the Southwest Power Pool service.
Humboldt-based Corn Belt Power Cooperative is telling customers that there can be intermittent power outages lasting 45 minutes.
MidAmerican Energy is asking its customers to conserve their natural gas use during extreme cold. The company said its systems are operating as expected, but natural gas flow to Iowa has been affected by frozen wells in the southern United States. The power company said it is working with its largest customers to ensure uninterrupted gas service for residential customers.
Alliant Energy said it projects it has sufficient supplies to provide natural gas and electricity to its customers.
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