KISSIMMEE, Fla., August 9, 2018 – Kissimmee Utility Authority’s 74,000 customers used more electricity Wednesday than at any time in the utility’s 117-year history, thanks to scorching temperatures and triple-digit heat indexes that had air conditioners working overtime.
KUA recorded an instantaneous system peak of 374.5 megawatts (MW) at 4:55 p.m. Wednesday, eclipsing the previous record of 374.1 MW set on July 6, 2016.
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 74,000 customers in Osceola County, Fla. For more information, visit http://kua.com.