The measure, formally called Emergency Load Control Plan Step 20, is an appeal to customers to begin voluntary load reductions where possible.

Currently, TVA, the wholesale power provider for BrightRidge, does not anticipate any supply or demand issues that would require drastic curtailment of electricity supply.

BrightRidge itself as part of ELCP Step 10 has reduced in-house electric load where possible. The next step, if necessary, would be ELCP 30, which would be a last call for voluntary customer load reduction as well as a series of internal steps that would not be noticeable by most customers.

As part of ELCP Step 20, BrightRidge customers should consider shutting down and unplugging unnecessary electrical appliances, such as unused computers, printers, monitors, televisions and gaming systems.

If possible while maintaining the comfort of the home or office, customers should consider turning the thermostat temperature down a degree or two which also saves dramatically on the customer’s power bill.

“TVA has invested millions in weatherization and system improvements since December 2022, and currently has not indicated any concerns about meeting the required electrical load,” BrightRidge CEO Jeff Dykes said Tuesday. “This is a public awareness step that we agree should be taken to alert folks to the fact that as temperatures fall, the demand for electricity increases exponentially. If we can all consider taking a few steps now, it could help prevent any difficulties down the road.”

Other steps to consider at home include ensuring that your HVAC filters are replaced and free of debris, delaying use of large appliances until after peak demand – typically between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. in the winter, preparing/updating your home emergency kit, and securing extra batteries or charging alternatives for those with home medical equipment or other critical electronic devices.