KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Utility companies in Kansas and Missouri are asking customers to conserve energy as sub-zero temperatures continue to impact the Midwest.
Evergy, Atmos and Spire offered tips for reducing energy, including:
- Lowering the thermostat to at least 68 degrees.
- Reducing the temperature of the water heater to 120 degrees.
- Disconnect the electronic components and turn off the lights that are not being used.
- Do not use a gas oven or stove to heat a home.
- Let the taps drip to help prevent the pipes from freezing.
- Limit the use of natural gas fireplaces.
- Install curtains / insulating curtains or use waterproof tape.
Spire Missouri President Scott Carter said in a press release that the company’s teams are “working hard” to ensure that 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 measures to ensure that they remain that way,” said Carter.
In addition, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly has issued a state of emergency disaster. She announced on Sunday the state of emergency, which “authorizes the use of state resources and personnel to assist in 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 climate, the statement said, and those costs “will eventually flow to customers”.
Evergy started preparing for cold temperatures last week, “planning for additional fuel needs and increasing staffing levels 24 hours a day, 7 days a week”, which put the company in a position to manage current demand, according to a press release.
For more information or weather safety tips, visit the Atmos website.