How heat affects TVA’s power grid

CHATTANOOGA, TN.- With extreme heat waves, some power grids may struggle to keep up with rising energy demand.  TVA is here to ensure that doesn’t happen.

“Our preparation actually started back in the spring. We did over 50 heavy maintenance activities and about 430 just general maintenance and checks on our system to ensure that we’re ready to go for whatever mother nature brings us.” says  TVA Spokesperson, Scott Fiedler.

For the last 10 Days in this heat wave, TVA has been monitoring the power grid, to make sure we don’t experience any blackouts. There is cruel irony when it comes to electric grids in the heat of summer. They start to struggle right when customers need them the most.

“And we don’t think customer should be concerned our system is operating normally we’re in a good position. We’ve been preparing for this heat all spring and we’re good to go for whatever mother nature brings us.” says Scott Fiedler.

 It starts at the power plant. They have trouble shedding the excess heat they generate in the process.  They are more inclined to break down. Also, power lines can be affected by the heat as well. Power lines, usually made of steel and aluminum, start sagging in the heat.  The sag  can also cause lines to just stop carrying power. TVA however, says that there is nothing to be worried about.

“You know you go out enjoy the weather this weekend. It’s gonna be hot and when you come back in, we’ll have the power ready for your air-conditioning so go have fun. Be safe and enjoy the 4th.” says Scott Fiedler.

There are still things that you can do at home that can benefit you and TVA.

“Why we’re not calling for conservation I always like to tell people to save power because it saves money on your power bill and the easiest way to do that is just adjust your thermostat up in the summer a little bit every degree you turn it up will save 3% on your power bill.” says Scott Fiedler.

Thanks to TVA’s preparation, we should be able to enjoy those AC units all summer.