City Utilities expecting increased demand for energy

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — As Springfield is expecting temperatures to dip into the teens over the next few days, City Utilities of Springfield is anticipating an increase in demand for energy.

"It's going to be cold. We have all our systems functioning well here at City Utilities," said Joel Alexander media relations manager at City Utilities. "We're monitoring every situation with the weather and with equipment and supplies, but right now, everything looks to be just exactly where we want it to be."

According to the National Weather Service, Springfield saw a stretch of single-digit temperature days during mid-January in 2024, similar to what is forecasted for the coming days. During that stretch last year, City Utilities asked customers to voluntarily conserve their energy.

"What we're doing is we're in communication with all the members of the Southwest Power Pool, of which City Utilities is a member," Alexander said. "And if they ask us to consider having customers cut back just a little bit, we'll definitely be in touch with all of our customers, all the media, letting them know to do that. But as of right now, things look to be in good working order."

CU says anything customers can do to conserve energy, and in turn lower their bills will help the energy system. The recommended temperature for homes during the winter time is 68°.

"Any utility providers are going to see an increased demand on natural gas and also on electricity," Alexander said. "So anything that a customer can do to conserve energy is going to help not only the customer but also help the energy system all around."

Before the cold hits, CU says now is a good time to make sure you home is prepared by making sure windows and doors are properly sealed, keeping cabinets open to avoid frozen pipes, and letting any sunlight into your home to help keep it warmer.

Alexander says it is also a good time for City Utilities customers to double check their contact information is up to date, that way if anything changes those customers are notified.