Public Advisory: Minister Encourages Residents to Conserve Energy

The Provincial Government is asking residents to conserve energy where possible over the next three days, as requested today by Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro as a preventive measure due to higher than usual electricity demand forecasted on the Island-Interconnected System.

“Although the call for conservation is a preventive measure, the Provincial Government is monitoring the situation closely,” said the Honourable Derrick Dalley, Minister of Natural Resources. “We wish to reassure residents that NL Hydro is taking every precaution to ensure the electricity system remains reliable.”

Residential and business customers are asked to avoid unnecessary electricity usage and reduce consumption as much as possible from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

At home, residents are encouraged to reduce electric heat by a few degrees; conserve hot water by not running dishwashers, washers or showers; and, avoid using the clothes dryer. At work, employees are encouraged to only heat spaces where and when necessary; reduce equipment use during peak periods; and, reduce lighting.

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Media contact:
Diana Quinton
Director of Communications
Department of Natural Resources
709-729-5282, 631, 8155
dianaquinton@gov.nl.ca 

2014 03 03             5:15 p.m.