There have been reports of potential rolling blackouts (or controlled outages) this summer, but while there is an increased risk of power interruptions due to the hot weather, this does not mean consumers should expect the lights to go out.

The Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) is an independent, not-for-profit, member-based organization responsible for operating the power grid across 15 U.S. states and the Canadian province of Manitoba.

MISO is responsible for making sure the right amount of electricity is generated and transmitted to its member utilities who are responsible for delivering the power to their consumers.

Wabash Valley Power Alliance and its members including Citizens Electric and its 27,000 member-owners are subject to the generation and transmission management of MISO.

As the hot weather continues to extend across much of the central U.S., MISO is closely monitoring and responding to the challenging operating conditions stemming from high electricity demand. MISO and its member utilities are already taking action to enhance the availability of resources.

Although the probability of blackouts is low, Citizens Electric members can make a difference and help to control their individual usage during the hottest times of day – mid- to late-afternoon – by following some commonsense practices:

• Turn up the thermostat on your air-conditioner a few degrees
• Delay using your electric clothes dryer until after 7:00 p.m.
• If you have an electric water heater, delay running your dishwasher and clothes washer
• Use your microwave instead of your electric stove during peak hours
• Close shades or blinds to reduce heat gain in your home
• Minimize opening your refrigerator and freezer during peak hours

Citizens Electric continues its commitment to providing safe, reliable electric service to its members, and we appreciate our members stepping up to help curb peak usage on these hot summer days.