Electrical grid operator urges energy conservation during cold frigid temperatures

VALLEY FORGE, Pennsylvania (WPVI) -- Frigid temperatures are having an effect on the power grid.

PJM Interconnection, the local electricity grid operator, is asking customers to conserve energy starting Saturday at 4 a.m. through Sunday at 10 a.m.

Electricity use right now is higher than usual and officials say conservation is important to prevent any power outages.

"As we got through the cold weather last night, certainly, electricity demand was higher than we forecast," said Michael Bryson, senior vice president of operations at PJM. "Also had some issues with some generators tripping offline."

PJM Interconnection is the electricity grid operator for 65 million people in 13 states and the District of Columbia.

Local power companies, such as PECO and PSE&G, are members of PJM.

PJM says some steps you can take to conserve electricity are setting your thermostat lower than usual if your health permits. Another option is to avoid using major appliances like stoves, dishwashers and dryers, and turn off non-essential electric lights and equipment.

PJM says this will ensure adequate power supplies during these frigid temperatures.

"If every household just takes some small relatively convenient measures.... it really starts to make an impact," said Bryson.

They will continue to monitor power supply conditions and will do everything possible to keep power flowing.

PJM says they do not expect to have to extend the notice past Christmas morning.

They already report some improvement to the power grid during this morning's peak.