CenterPoint Energy is now asking its southwest Indiana customers to turn down their thermostats in response to the extremely cold temperatures currently affecting the area.
CenterPoint Energy's Indiana South service area includes approximately 113,000 natural gas customers in Daviess, Gibson, Knox, Martin, Pike, Posey, Spencer, Vanderburgh, and Warrick counties.
If possible, customers in the area are being asked to reduce their thermostat settings to 60-65 degrees during the day when at home, and lower the setting an additional 5-10 degrees when asleep or away from home through the morning of Friday, Feb. 19.
"This step can help ensure that all customers continue to have gas service to stay safe and warm during the intensely cold weather," CenterPoint Energy said in a statement Tuesday.
Officials with the utility company say that while the service area is not currently in an emergency situation, the request is being made as a precautionary measure to prevent any disruptions.
“We are not currently in an emergency situation, but we ask for our customers’ assistance in curbing their natural gas usage so that we can continue to provide reliable service and prevent any disruptions,” said Richard Leger, Vice President, Natural Gas Distribution, Indiana and Ohio. “We apologize for any inconvenience and thank our customers for all their energy conservation efforts during this time.”
The utility offers these additional energy-saving tips for customers:
- Lower the temperature setting on your water heater and limit your use of hot water.
- Open blinds and shades to take advantage of the sun’s natural heat during the day.
- Close shades and blinds at night to reduce heat loss through windows.
- Check the company’s website for more energy saving tips.
If a customer experiences a loss of gas service, they should contact the utility at 1-800-227-1376.
