KANSAS CITY, Missouri – Utilities in Kansas and Missouri are asking customers to conserve energy as freezing temperatures continue to impact the Midwest.
Evergy, Atmos, and Spire have all provided tips for reducing energy, including:
- Lower the thermostat to a minimum of 68 degrees.
- Lowering the temperature of the boiler to 120 degrees.
- Disconnect electronics and turn off lights that are not in use.
- Do not use an oven or gas stove to heat a house.
- Drip taps to avoid frozen pipes.
- Limit the use of natural gas fireplaces.
- Install insulating curtains / awnings or use weatherproof tape.
Scott Carter, president of Spire Missouri, said in a press release that the company’s teams are “working hard” to make sure customers are safe and warm.
“We are closely monitoring the situation and while our systems remain strong, we want to work together as a community by taking some temporary measures to make sure they stay that way,” Carter said.
In addition, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly issued a state of emergency. She announced a state of emergency on Sunday, which “allows 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.
Natural gas wholesale costs are up to 100 times higher than normal due to the weather, the release said, and those costs “will eventually pass through to customers.”
Evergy began preparing for the frigid temperatures last week by “planning for additional fuel needs and increasing a 24/7 workforce,” enabling the company to manage current demand, according to a press release.
For more information or weather safety tips, visit the Atmos website