EMRC: Heatwave raises electric load by 18%

The ongoing heatwave has driven a significant surge in electricity consumption, raising the maximum load on the Kingdom’s electrical system by 18%, the Energy and Minerals Regulatory Commission (EMRC) said on Tuesday.

The load reached 3,660 megawatts at 8:27 p.m. on Monday, an increase from the same period last year, EMRC Chairman Ziad Saaida noted. Saaida emphasized the Commission’s commitment to maintaining oversight of the electrical system, facilitated by a 24-hour monitoring and emergency center.

During an inspection of operational preparations and maintenance plans, Saaida reviewed the proactive measures taken by electricity companies to mitigate the heatwave’s impact. He praised the effectiveness of these preemptive measures in enhancing the sector’s readiness.

Saaida urged electricity companies to swiftly implement operational plans and promptly address any network issues. He also stressed the importance of ongoing public awareness campaigns to promote energy conservation, aiming to prevent excessi
ve consumption and high electricity bills.

He advised citizens to adopt energy-efficient cooling practices, such as setting air conditioners to 24 degrees Celsius, cleaning air filters regularly, and using curtains to block peak sunlight. Saaida also recommended turning off air conditioners when rooms or offices are unoccupied to conserve energy.

Source: Jordan News Agency