from staff reports



Frigid temperatures have contributed to Mississippi Power reaching an all-time record demand for electricity.

The new record demand of 2,698,000 kilowatts was reached at 7 a.m., Tuesday, surpassing the company’s all-time peak of 2,593,000 kilowatts set August 29, 2000.

The company’s previous record peak for the winter was 2,523,000 kilowatts set in January 2003.

The company is closely monitoring the weather conditions but was not anticipating widespread outages due to freezing temperatures. Staffing has been adjusted and the system is prepared to handle the developing weather patterns according to a Mississippi Power press release. In the event of an outage, work plans are in place to respond quickly.

Julie Walker with the East Mississippi Electric Power Association said employees are on standby and ready for whatever may happen. She said no critical power load situations are expected with the winter weather forecasts.



NO POWER?



Representatives with Mississippi Power are available 24 hours/7 days a week. Customers can report outages at 1-800-ITS-DARK or 1-800-487-3275.

East Mississippi Electric Power Association customers can call (601) 581-8600.