An Arctic blast is forecasted to bring negative temperatures and dangerously low windchills to eastern Colorado and much of the central United States beginning tonight, Wednesday, Dec. 21. This cold snap has caused an increased demand for natural gas, a fuel source relied upon by energy providers like Grand Valley Power to heat homes and generate electricity.
While the Western Slope is projected to be spared from these harsh conditions, the demand for natural gas has caused a price increase in fuel costs.
While Grand Valley Power works hard to deliver its members safe, affordable, reliable electricity, some forces are beyond our control. GVP is working closely with our wholesale power provider, Xcel Energy, to monitor the situation and minimize the financial impact on cooperative consumers. At this time, we ask that members reduce the impact on their winter bills by reducing their energy consumption.
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Arctic Blast FAQ's
An Arctic blast is forecasted to bring negative temperatures to eastern Colorado and much of the central United States, increasing the demand for natural gas to heat homes and generate electricity.
This increased demand has caused a spike in natural gas prices that could ultimately be passed to Grand Valley Power consumers in the form of a fuel cost adjustment. Grand Valley Power is asking all members to reduce their energy use to decrease both energy demand and the cost of natural gas.
The National Weather Service forecasts temperatures will drop below zero and stay there through the weekend (the Christmas holiday). Additionally, weather forecasters are monitoring the potential for a cold snap that could hit New Year’s weekend.
Members can reduce their energy consumption when natural gas prices are spiking. The U.S. Department of Energy offers these tips for saving electricity during the cold winter months:
- Set your thermostat as low as is comfortable and turn it down even more when you leave the house or are sleeping (but leave it at a comfortable level for pets).
- Take advantage of the heat from the sun by opening curtains on the sunny side of your home.
- If you have one, use a wood or pellet stove to heat your home.
- Cover drafty windows with insulating drapes or shades; seal leaks with caulk or weather stripping.
- Keep the temperature of your water heater on the warm (120 degrees F) setting.
- Use LED lights for holiday decorating or lighting your house.
Grand Valley Power strives to provide all families with affordable energy and will work with our members in need. Information about the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) and others is available on our website: https://gvp.org/energy-assistance