LIPA: We're Ready for Heat Wave

With temperatures expected to creep to triple digits by Saturday, Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) officials say they will have extra crews available to address any heat-related outages that may arise as residents crank up their air conditioning to battle the hot and humid weather.

“LIPA has enough capacity available to meet the projected peak demand for the forecasted hot and humid stretch, which is expected to average about 5300 MW over the next three days," LIPA COO Michael D. Hervey said Wednesday.

LIPA is reminding its customers to use electricity efficiently to conserve energy and reduce the potential for outages. LIPA offers the following tips during periods of high heat and humidity:

• Put air conditioners on timers, don't let them run when not at home
• Set air conditioners at 78 degrees
• Use fans to circulate cool air, which helps cut air conditioner use
• Set refrigerators and freezers at most efficient temperatures
• Run major appliances such as clothes and dishwashers in the morning or late evening to avoid the peak demand hours of 2 to 8 p.m.

“Given LIPA's on- and off-island resources along with significant investments in our transmission and distribution system, LIPA is in good shape to meet the electrical demands during this heat storm,” Hervey said.

Extra crews will be available over the next three days to deal with outages. Customers can call 1-800- 490-0075 or can visit LIPA’s Storm Center at http://www.lipower.org/stormcenter for more information.