Energy companies urge conservation as heat dome arrives in PNW

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Oregon is about to head into its first intense heat wave of 2024 with temperatures projected to reach 100 degrees in some areas -- increasing the state’s overall use of energy.

In preparation for the coming heat, local energy companies like Portland General Electric and Pacific Power are asking customers to conserve energy as their resources are put to the test.

“More electricity is used by our customers during the summer season than at any other time of the year,” said Pacific Power’s senior vice president of power delivery, Curt Mansfield. “We encourage customers to take steps now to manage their energy use and take advantage of incentives to increase energy efficiency at home.” 

Although Pacific Power officials say they are “well positioned to meet summer customer demand,” the company asks customers to decrease strain on the shared electrical grid by limiting energy usage at the warmest times of the day.

Between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m., energy companies recommend setting central cooling systems to 78 degrees or higher, turning off all unnecessary lights and appliances, and using fans to increase airflow throughout the house.

Portland General Electric also encourages being prepared for a possible loss of power.

“The high heat means customers are using more electricity to cool their homes and businesses,” PGE said in a press release. “High demand places extra stress on electrical equipment, and that can lead to power outages.”

The company encourages having an outage kit with emergency supplies as well as extra ice in case refrigerators need to keep food cold until power returns. Those with health conditions are also encouraged to enroll in the PGE medical certificate program, in case of an emergency.

Back in 2021, triple-digit heat hit the greater Portland and Vancouver metro areas between June 26 to June 28. Temperatures shot up to 108, 112, and finally the all-time record-breaking temperature of 116 degrees.

A total of 72 heat-related deaths were recorded in Multnomah County that year, all of which were caused by the heat dome.

During periods of extreme fire weather, PGE will sometimes conduct Public Safety Power Shutoffs to prevent electrical lines from sparking wildfire disasters. However, no PSPS notices have been issued in the region as of Wednesday morning.

Stay with KOIN 6 News as our coverage of the heat dome continues.