RELEASE: Severe Cold Demonstrates Need For Updated Energy Infrastructure
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 26, 2015
Contact: Adrianne Marsh
(314) 827-6141
Severe Cold Demonstrates Need For Updated Energy Infrastructure
Jefferson City, MO – Low temperatures this week spurred Missourians For A Balanced Energy Future to remind consumers and elected officials that, without a significant policy change, the reliability of Missouri’s aging energy grid will be threatened, putting millions of residents and businesses at risk during these critical months.
“As this winter’s temperature ups and downs plummet down again to single digit wind chills and Missourians watch as residents in other states continue to dig out from mountains of snow, we’re reminded once again that winter circumstances can be dire,” MBEF Executive Director Irl Scissors said. “Updates to Missouri’s energy infrastructure are critical to keep Missourians safe.”
Much of Missouri’s energy grid was built in the 1950’s and 60’s when kitchen appliances and air conditioners were in demand.To support these new devices in homes, infrastructure in the way of energy plants, transmission facilities and distribution mechanism were built. The growth in the market helped to pay for and sustain repairs to this equipment. Today, growth is flat and updates are not being prioritized.
Part of the issue is that Missouri’s energy policies are even older than the grid, dating back nearly 100 years. Thus, energy companies are not given the right tools to be able to repair and replace this equipment at the rate it’s going out of service. As a result, some time in the not so distant future Missouri consumers may face a disruption in service.
“Blackouts during the winter can put Missouri families – especially those most vulnerable – at serious risk. Not to mention that, according to the American Society of Civil Engineers that has been particularly critical of Missouri’s energy infrastructure, it could cost Missouri businesses $1000 for an hour of disrupted power. That’s a cost our fragile economy cannot afford,” Scissors said.
Energy Savers
Staying warm without breaking the bank can be a big concern for families when temperatures drop. These tips can help.
- Install plastic, caulk or weather stripping on windows and doors that leak air.
- When not in use, make sure the fireplace damper is tightly closed.
- Adjust the thermostat or program the thermostat when sleeping or out of the home.
- Check air ducts to be sure they are still connected.
- Make sure vents are not blocked by furniture or drapes.
- Close off rooms that are not in use.
- Use ceiling fans to circulate heat with blades rotating clockwise from below.
- Seal up areas around plumbing on outer walls and basement to prevent damage.
- Replace the furnace filter monthly.
(NOTE: Seniors and people with special medical needs should check with their doctors before changing their normal home temperatures. Also, do not alter temperatures within the home to the point that pipes risk freezing or bursting.)
###
