Powerlink has called for Queensland residents to reduce their electricity consumption as a heat-wave pushes energy demand to new records.
Powerlink Chief Executive, Paul Simshauser, asked Queenslanders to reduce consumption as the state was forecast to reach peak electricity peak demand in the afternoon of 1 February, reaching 10,032MW, very close to the 2019 record of 10,044MW and well above the 2021 peak of 9,450MW.
Mr Simshauser said by reducing electricity consumption – especially in the afternoon and evening – people can help to ensure that available supply is used in the fairest and most efficient manner across industry, the community and essential services.
“We’re encouraging electricity customers to reduce their energy consumption where safe to do so over the next two days,” Mr Simshauser said.
“Your safety and wellbeing is important so only reduce energy consumption if it is safe to do so. We appreciate your efforts in reducing power use.
“By reducing electricity use at home and in your workplace, the community can help ensure that power system security is maintained in Queensland.”
Queensland households can reduce electricity usage by:
- Reducing the number of rooms being air-conditioned, or running air conditioners a couple of degrees higher
- Turning off computers, TVs and other household appliances in standby mode
- Turning off pool pumps and second fridges
- Turning off unnecessary interior and exterior lights
Commercial businesses can limit electricity usage by:
- Limiting the use of air conditioners (unless needed for health or medical reasons) and if air conditioners need to be used, set them to 24°C or above
- Reducing the amount of interior and advertising lighting used
- Turning off water heating systems and urns, except for food and beverage preparation and cleaning
- Turning off advertising lighting, heating appliances for swimming pools or spas and any unnecessary exterior lighting
“Unfortunately Queensland has several large generators undergoing emergency maintenance which has reduced available supply,” Mr Simshauser said.
“We will keep Queenslanders informed through our communication channels, and the media. I strongly encourage all Queenslanders to keep up to date and consider how you can help by reducing your electricity consumption to prevent outages.
“In the event of supply outages, it is important to note emergency services and other priority groups such as hospitals and nursing homes will be given priority access to electricity supply to ensure that crucial services are available.”
Federal Energy Minister, Mick de Brenni, said that the Government is working with major electricity users to manage demand, but households can also take simple steps to help, such as turning off devices that are on standby, or other appliances where it is safe to do so; especially during the evening peak.
“Essential services such as hospitals, transport networks, ports, airports and other key infrastructure will stay online,” Mr de Brenni said.
