KISSIMMEE, Fla., June 24, 2019 – For the second time in a month, Kissimmee residents have set a new all-time record for electricity use.
Kissimmee Utility Authority recorded an instantaneous system peak of 388.8 megawatts (MW) at 4:37 p.m. Monday, eclipsing the previous record of 380.8 MW set on May 28.
Monday’s above-normal temperatures combined with high humidity created a heat index of 103 degrees (as reported by Kissimmee Gateway Airport), forcing air conditioners to work overtime.
KUA offers the following energy-saving tips that require little or no expense and can help to reduce summertime energy costs:
- Set the thermostat on the highest comfortable setting (KUA recommends 78-80 degrees). Raising the temperature just two degrees can reduce cooling costs by as much as five percent.
- Change or clean air conditioner filters monthly. Dirty filters can increase operating costs by 20 percent.
- Use ceiling and portable fans to keep air moving. Fans only use about as much energy as a light bulb.
- Close blinds, drapes and shades during the hottest part of the day. This keeps the sun’s rays from heating a house
Founded in 1901, KUA is Florida’s sixth largest community-owned utility powering 76,000 customers in Osceola County, Fla. For more information, visit http://kua.com.