Blue Ridge Energy Prepared for Extreme Cold Weather and Provides Members Tips to Save Energy and Money

Lenoir, North Carolina (January 20, 2025) – Blue Ridge Energy is working with its power supplier and closely monitoring extreme cold conditions expected through Thursday, with temperatures dropping to the lowest levels in years for an extended period.

High demand for electricity, primarily heating, will occur and can put extreme demand on the regional power grid. Blue Ridge Energy is coordinating with its power supplier, Duke Energy, to ensure the most reliable electricity.

Cold weather, especially extreme cold, also leads to increased energy usage by consumers. Heating systems must work harder—using more energy—to keep homes at the desired temperature.

To help members keep energy costs lower, Blue Ridge Energy offers the following tips:

Low- or no-cost energy-saving tips:

• Lower your thermostat to the lowest comfortable setting. Supplemental heating from sources such as gas logs and space heaters can help but do not leave space heaters unattended and be sure to plug them directly into an outlet—not a power strip. 
• Open blinds/curtains when the sun is out to help warm the house. Close them at night to help keep cold air out.
• Be sure air leaks around windows and doors or other areas where cold air can enter your home are caulked or sealed and have proper weather stripping. Locking windows can help. Using door sweeps at the bottom of doors can help.
• Change air filters for your HVAC system regularly for airflow efficiency. Maintaining your heating systems can also help increase efficiency. 
• Operate ceiling fans in a clockwise direction in the winter to push warm air back down into the room.
• Replace standard bulbs with LEDs. 
• Avoid blocking air vents and registers with furniture.
• Wear extra layers and socks inside the house; use extra blankets on beds.
• Set your water heater to 120 degrees or less. Water heating is typically the second-biggest user of energy in your home.
• To track your home’s daily energy usage and see the impact weather can have on your usage and energy costs, use Blue Ridge Energy’s free, customized member tool, Usage Tracker, on our mobile app or website. Learn more: www.blueridgeenergy.com/resources/usage-tracker

For more energy-saving tips to help control monthly energy bills, visit: www.blueridgeenergy.com/resources.