ROANOKE, Va., July 9, 2024 — With temperatures expected to reach the low to mid-90s over the next week, Appalachian Power is closely monitoring its policy on scheduled customer outages to ensure the safety of its customers and employees.

Appalachian Power is working to schedule all planned customer outages in the morning before temperatures reach daytime highs. All outages scheduled for later in the day will be canceled during extreme temperatures. Emergency outage work will continue as needed.

“We’re going to continue to evaluate each scheduled outage and make the best decision for all parties involved,” said Jason Baker, vice president of distribution operations. “Our primary focus is ensuring our customers and employees are safe during these high temperatures.”

During this period of hot weather, air conditioners may be working hard to keep homes comfortable, which increases energy use and electric bills.
Appalachian Power encourages its customers to take steps to help save energy and money.

ENERGY-SAVING TIPS

• Set thermostats just a few degrees higher, especially when you aren't home.
• Avoid using heat-producing appliances such as ovens or dryers during the hottest parts of the day.
• Keep windows covered during the day, especially those facing south, to save on cooling costs.
• Ensure ceiling fans are spinning counterclockwise to push cooler air down.
• Unplug appliances and electronics when not in use.
   

Customers can find additional tips at AppalachianPower.com and by checking their energy dashboard for personalized recommendations. Appalachian Power is also coordinating with PJM, its regional transmission organization, to monitor the supply and demand for electricity in its region.

Appalachian Power has 1 million customers in Virginia, West Virginia and Tennessee (as AEP Appalachian Power). It is part of American Electric Power, which is focused on building a smarter energy infrastructure and delivering new technologies and custom energy solutions. AEP’s approximately 17,000 employees operate and maintain the nation’s largest electricity transmission system and more than 225,000 miles of distribution lines to efficiently deliver safe, reliable power to nearly 5.6 million customers in 11 states. AEP is also one of the nation’s largest electricity producers with approximately 29,000 megawatts of diverse generating capacity, including 6,000 megawatts of renewable energy.