KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Utility companies in Kansas and Missouri are asking customers to conserve energy as temperatures below freezing continue to impact the Midwest.
Evergy, Atmos and Spire have offered tips for reducing energy, such as:
- Lower the thermostat to at least 68 degrees.
- Lower the water heater temperature to 120 degrees.
- Disconnect the electronics and turn off unused lights.
- Do not use an oven or gas stove to heat a house.
- Allow the taps to drain to prevent frozen tubes.
- Limit the use of natural gas fireplaces.
- Install insulating curtains or use duct tape.
Spire Missouri president Scott Carter said in a press release that the company’s teams “work hard” to ensure 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 steps to make sure they stay that way,” Carter said.
In addition, Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly issued a state of emergency disaster. The state of emergency was announced Sunday, which “authorizes the use of state resources and personnel to assist with response and recovery operations in affected counties that meet certain criteria,” according to a press release.
Wholesale costs of natural gas are up to 100 times higher than normal due to the weather, according to the statement, and those costs “will eventually pass on to customers.”
Evergy began preparing for the cold temperatures last week by “planning additional fuel needs and increasing the workforce 24 hours a day, 7 days a week,” which has put the company in a position to manage the current demand, according to a press release.
For more information or tips on weather safety, visit the Atmos website.