Manager’s Message – September 2021
Higher Temperatures & Higher Bills
Greetings,
Let’s revisit March’s manager message, where I shared what extremely low temperatures meant to energy consumption and bills. Average ambient temperatures dropped during the weather system of February 10. Even though I did not adjust my thermostat, my heating system required more energy to accomplish the same task as days prior. More energy consumed equals a higher bill.
What I told you then can also be said for extremely high-temperature events when you have air-conditioning loads in your home or business.
High ambient temperatures were reached during the weather systems of July and early August. Although I adjusted my smart thermostat to be as efficient as possible, my cooling system required more energy to accomplish the same task as days prior. More energy consumed equals a higher bill.
Visually, it can be expressed in the chart below.
This is actual energy consumption data from my home in The Dalles. I accessed this information from my personal account on our web portal. You can do the same thing for your account to see your consumption. You also can retrieve this same information from the Northern Wasco County PUD app.
It’s a great time to have a free energy audit done to identify ways to reduce your consumption. The energy audit of my home accomplished by our excellent PUD staff identified a few things I need to do to reduce my energy use. I am thankful for the energy-efficiency upgrade programs we offer our customer-owners. The programs will allow for a new heat pump and weatherization measures in the coming year.
Your PUD staff, board and I are working hard to keep the carbon-free hydropower flowing safely, reliably, and affordably to you. I am very thankful for the excellent work by staff and the contractor community, who keep your electric service safe and reliable. Stay cool, stay safe and stay healthy!
General Manager
Roger Kline
