KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Utility companies in Kansas and Missouri are asking customers to conserve energy as below-freezing temperatures continue to impact the Midwest.
Evergy, Atmos and Spire all have offered tips to reduce energy, including:
- Lowering the thermostat to at least 68 degrees.
- Lowering the water heater temperature to 120 degrees.
- Unplug electronics and turn off lights that aren’t being used.
- Not using an oven or gas stovetop to heat a home.
- Allow faucets to trickle to help prevent frozen pipes.
- Limit use of natural gas fireplaces.
- Install insulating drapes/shades or use weather-sealing tape.
Spire Missouri President Scott Carter said in a news release that the company's teams are "working hard" to ensure customers are safe and warm.
"We are carefully 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.
Additionally, Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly issued a state of emergency disaster. She announced on Sunday the state of emergency, 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 news release.
Wholesale natural gas costs are up to 100 times higher than normal due to the weather, the release stated, and those costs “will eventually flow through to customers.”
Evergy began preparing for the frigid temperatures last week by "planning for additional fuel needs and increasing 24/7 staffing levels," which has put the company in a position to manage the current demand, according to a news release.
For more information or weather safety tips, visit Atmos’ website.
