As temperatures climb higher during the steamy days of summer, the demand for electricity also increases. That’s why AEP Ohio prepares for peak demand seasons by working year-round with PJM, our regional grid operator, to monitor the supply and demand for electricity across our service territory.
Prepared for Peak Demand
While the National Weather Service is predicting a hotter-than-normal summer, PJM expects to have sufficient generation capacity to meet the typical peak demand, which it predicts to be just over 154,000 megawatts (MW) for its 13-state region that includes Ohio.
PJM’s record summer peak load was set at 165,563 MW in 2006. Last year, PJM’s summer peak was about 152,700 MW and 147,000 MW in 2023. The grid operator has approximately 179,200 MW of generation capacity this summer, as well as approximately 7,900 MW of contracted demand response.
In the event of an extreme scenario prompting record demand that would surpass its required reserves of generation capacity, PJM is prepared to implement strategies that may include calling for reduced electricity usage.
To manage such a situation, PJM would first activate utility companies’ demand response programs, such as AEP Ohio’s Power Rewards. These programs incentivize customers who have opted in to reduce their electricity consumption during system emergencies, helping to stabilize the grid and avoid outages. Learn more or sign up at AEPOhio.com/PowerRewards.
Keeping Customers Informed
If PJM issues requests for additional energy conservation or grid protection, AEP Ohio will keep customers informed through various channels, including social media, text alerts, automated phone calls, emails and local news media. Make sure we have your current contact information and verify that you’re signed up to receive notifications by visiting AEPOhio.com/Account.
As a last resort, PJM may tell AEP Ohio and other utilities in its territory to initiate emergency power outages to protect the grid. PJM may provide AEP Ohio with as few as five minutes’ notice to reduce energy use (or “shed load”) via emergency power outages. AEP Ohio will always do our best to provide customers with advance warning before such emergency grid protection outages are implemented.
If we are required to begin emergency outages and if the grid conditions allow it, we will always attempt to limit the length of time customers are without power by moving or “rolling” the outages to different parts of the grid for short durations, then moving the outages to the next group of customers and restoring those who were out previously.
Hear more about AEP Ohio’s emergency load reduction process from our director of operations.
Our Commitment to Safety and Reliability
AEP Ohio’s equipment is designed and maintained to operate safely and effectively under all weather conditions, including extreme heat. Should outages occur, we have line, tree and support personnel stationed at over 40 service centers across the state, ready to respond safely and promptly.
Summertime Energy-Saving Tips
AEP Ohio encourages all customers to use energy wisely, especially during the warmer months. Here are some simple steps to help save energy and money:
- Adjust your thermostat: Increase the temperature on your thermostat to 78 degrees or whatever is safe and comfortable for your household.
- Limit heat-producing appliances: Avoid using heat-generating appliances like ovens or dryers during the hottest parts of the day.
- Cover your windows: Close blinds or curtains during the day, particularly on windows on the sunny side of your home, to reduce cooling costs.
- Use ceiling fans: Ensure ceiling fans spin counterclockwise to push cooler air down. Also remember to turn them off when you leave the room.
- Change your filter: Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to change your HVAC system’s filter regularly. A dirty or clogged filter will make your A/C work harder.
