Request for power usage reduction in all library locations

From Deputy Director of Customer Experience Michele Gorman:

Hi guys. Today we received notice that the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) reported a record-breaking 69K MW peak demand for the first time ever yesterday. Due to the power demand associated with the heat wave, ERCOT has warned Houston and other cities around the state of potential brownouts and/or blackouts over the next few days. In order to help reduce this possibility, GSD requests all departments implement the following power usage reduction measures:

1. Close blinds and all curtains to help insulate against radiant heat.

2. Turn off lights in offices with windows and no blinds or curtains. However, keep in mind that for safety reasons, lighting must meet minimum foot candle standards in interior areas.

3. Turn off all nonessential equipment and systems that draw power. (Ex: Escalators, televisions, Break rooms, restrict microwave and toaster oven use; turn off environmental controls to offices that are uninhabited).

Although we do not know if this request for power usage reduction will remain in place longer than today, to be safe please do your best to do the three things above for the next three days, or as long as this heat wave lasts.

Thanks,

Michele

(In case you were wondering what a foot candle standard is, a link has been added to the post. - MR)