Did you know? Although we are in Kansas, our electric grid is interconnected across state borders. As a result, we would like to remind you about the alert system used by our network partners in the event of an energy emergency which may arise during extreme weather conditions in the wider region. Raising awareness about energy advisories and the energy emergency alert system is just one way we keep you informed as a member.
Prairie Land Electric is an electric distribution cooperative. We do not generate power for our members but purchase it wholesale from Sunflower Electric Power Corporation, our generation and transmission (G&T) provider based in Hays, Kansas. Sunflower is part of the Southwest Power Pool (SPP), a regional transmission organization (RTO) that manages the electric grid across 14 states in the central U.S.
As a member of SPP, Sunflower must follow SPP’s directives to balance the power grid. At times, particularly during extreme weather conditions, SPP must take measures to proactively mitigate significant strains on our energy resources. SPP has three levels of Energy Emergency Alerts (EEA):
Controlled power interruptions are not coordinated at the distribution level; therefore, we cannot predict exactly where and when each controlled interruption will happen. Members should prepare for and expect each interruption to last anywhere from 30 – 90 minutes.
To further explain the need for energy conservation under EEA-1 or EEA-2 or controlled service interruptions under EEA-3, along with the tips on how and why you may wish to contribute during these events, see information below:
Maintaining A Reliable Grid – A Delicate Balance
The electric grid operates on a delicate balance between the electricity being generated and the electricity being consumed. If the demand for electricity surpasses the available supply, which can happen during extreme weather events, the system becomes strained. This strain can lead to voltage instability, equipment damage, and even cascading failures throughout the grid. A complete blackout could occur if the demand continues to exceed the available capacity.
Voluntary Conservation:
During EEA2, and sometimes during EEA1, SPP will direct Sunflower to make appeals to the public to conserve energy, and Prairie Land will relay these messages to our members. By curtailing your energy usage during these events, you contribute to the overall resilience of the electric grid and help prevent potential disruptions that could affect not only your household but also your community. It is a shared responsibility to use resources wisely during times of increased demand or limited supply. We want to thank you in advance for helping protect the stability of the electric grid and safeguard energy reliability. Here are a few ways you can contribute:
- First, consider adjusting your thermostat by a few degrees. Every little bit helps. The recommended range is between 60-68 degrees during cold weather, and 78 degrees or more during a heat wave.
- Unplug devices not in use. Many electronics consume energy even when turned off. It's a small action with a big impact. These could be things like toasters or kitchen appliances, electronics, and power strips.
- Finally, consider delaying energy-intensive tasks, like running your dishwasher or doing laundry, until later when the demand for energy is lower.
Controlled Temporary Power Outages:
If the strain on our energy system remains after the public effort to conserve energy after an EEA2 is issued, SPP may issue an EEA3 as the last and critical step to stabilize the grid during high demand.
During an EEA3, SPP directs generation and transmission utilities across the SPP region to implement temporary, rotating power interruptions to prevent the system from reaching its breaking point. These power interruptions, called load sheds, are strategically implemented by grid operators. Load shedding involves systematically cutting power to different areas for short periods. This intentional reduction in demand helps prevent the electric system from overloading and potential equipment failures and gives the grid a chance to stabilize, as well as prevent extensive power outages.
Unfortunately, there is typically no advance notice of the load sheds to local distribution utilities such as Prairie Land and its members because Sunflower must implement rotating outages immediately upon being directed to do so by the SPP.
If you experience a controlled power interruption, here are a few tips:
- Turn off and unplug electronic devices to avoid power surges when the power comes back.
- Use battery-powered lights instead of candles for safety.
- During cold weather:
- Wear layered clothing to preserve body heat. Use blankets and extra clothing to stay warm.
- Gather in one room to conserve heat, and close off unused rooms.
- If safe, use alternative heating sources like fireplaces or wood stoves.
- In high temperatures:
- Take a cold shower or use cool cloths on your neck and wrists. Avoid sunlight and enjoy cool treats. Hydrate.
- Cook outside on your grill or propane flat-top.
- Close the doors of unused areas that don't have vents or registers, as well as curtains and blinds.
We want to thank you in advance for helping protect the stability of the electric grid and safeguard energy reliability.