Updated • Sandhills, North Carolina
Extreme weather — whether it’s intense summer heat or frigid winter cold — can place added strain on the power grid. That’s why :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} plans year-round to ensure reliable service during all types of conditions, while also encouraging customers to conserve energy during times of unusually high demand.
How Duke Energy Manages the Grid During Extreme Conditions
Duke Energy uses a combination of historical data, real-time system analysis, predictive modeling, advanced technologies, and decades of operational experience to reliably meet customer energy needs — even during weather-driven demand spikes.
Dedicated teams of meteorologists and system operators monitor weather conditions and grid performance 24 hours a day, seven days a week, allowing the company to respond quickly as conditions change.
Why Energy Conservation Matters During Temperature Extremes
During periods of sustained extreme temperatures, energy demand can rise sharply. Conservation helps reduce strain on the system and supports overall grid reliability for everyone.
Duke Energy works hard to avoid scenarios where demand exceeds supply, but customer participation plays an important role during peak periods.
Energy-Saving Tips for Homes
- Set your thermostat to the lowest comfortable setting in winter and reduce it a few degrees during peak morning hours
- In summer, choose the highest comfortable thermostat setting during midday demand peaks
- Avoid using large appliances like dishwashers, ovens, and dryers during early winter mornings and late summer afternoons
- Shift laundry and other non-essential activities to late evening in winter or early morning in summer
- Limit hot water use during peak demand periods if you have an electric water heater
- Avoid using high-demand electric space heaters during early morning hours in winter
Energy-Saving Tips for Businesses
- Turn off equipment, electronics, and lighting not essential to daily operations
- Adjust thermostats by a degree or two where possible, especially in facilities with automation systems
- Consider allowing staff to work remotely when feasible to reduce building energy use
- Avoid running multiple energy-intensive processes at the same time
