NYPA Activates Peak Load Management Program; NYC Customers Expected to Cut Demand by Over 50,000 Kilowatts

Contact
Michael Saltzman
914-390-8181
michael.saltzman@nypa.gov

August 14, 2002

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NEW YORK—The New York Power Authority (NYPA) activated its Peak Load Management (PLM) program today (Wednesday) in New York City in anticipation of high electricity demand as a result of very hot and humid weather conditions.  It marks the 11th day this summer that the Power Authority has put the program into effect, as part of a coordinated effort to manage the available electricity capacity in the state and prevent power disruptions.

NYPA customers participating in the program receive $40 for each kilowatt of electricity they commit to save when called on during the high-demand months, from June through September. The Power Authority may make such requests for up to 15 weekdays during those months, with the standard duration of the reductions lasting up to six hours (12 noon-6 p.m.).

Participants achieve the power cutbacks through various measures, including turning off or dimming non-essential lighting, adjusting air-conditioning settings, and using their own on-site generators.

Among the NYPA customers participating are the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, the City and State Universities of New York, and the New York City Department of Environmental Protection.

On previous PLM days this summer—the most recent yesterday—participating customers reduced their electricity use by a total of more than 50,000 kilowatts, which is about equal to the output of a small power plant.

Customers receive a day-ahead notice of the possible activation of the program. Confirmation notices are then issued on the morning of the peak load day.

NYPA’s PLM program is part of a larger effort under New York State government’s direction known as the Coordinated Electricity Demand Reduction Initiative, or CEDRI, that has resulted in substantial cutbacks in power use this summer.  In addition to NYPA, it involves the New York Independent System Operator, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, the Long Island Power Authority, and the New York State Public Service Commission.