City employees were told to conserve energy and save costs on electrical use during the hot weather on Monday.
On the five hottest days of the year — Peak Load Capacity Days (PLCD) — the city is charged more by its electrical provider due to high demand for electricity. Employees were notified by email Monday that they needed to lower their energy usage.
Employees were encouraged to unplug chargers and electrical devices and keep lights to a minimum. The email also told staffers to keep the blinds shut and take off the afternoon if possible.
Peter Hager, director of the department of central services, sent an email to employees stating the city needs to cut back or completely turn off air conditioning during the designated days.
The city encouraged employees to dress in layers, be prepared to be warm, and to refrain from adjusting the thermostats.
“We wanted to acknowledge the steps city staff have taken, express gratitude and encourage continued cooperation,” Hager wrote in an email to employees.
Out of the five PLCDs, the city has gone through half of days for the year.
Also being affected by the heat are local HVAC companies, saying they’re busier than ever.
CJ’s Hearing and Air said they get an average of five to 10 calls a day, but due to the heat, they are taking 50-60 calls a day. It’s keeping the company’s 14 crews busy.
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