Easley, Michael. Press Release, 2006-08-08, Gov. Easley Allows Thermostats In State Buildings Back To Normal; Utility Companies Report Electricity Demand Returning To Typical Summer Load

Michael F. Easley Governor State of North Carolina Office of the Governor For Release: IMMEDIATE Contact: Seth Effron Date: August 8, 2006 Phone: 919/733-5612 GOV. EASLEY ALLOWS THERMOSTATS IN STATE BUILDINGS BACK TO NORMAL Utility Companies Report Electricity Demand Returning to Typical Summer Load RALEIGH - Gov. Mike Easley said today North Carolina agencies are returning building thermostats to their typical summer settings, as the state’s power utilities indicated that record electricity demand during the recent heat wave has subsided. Easley has told Department of Administration Secretary Britt Cobb that state building temperatures may be reduced a couple of degrees, back to between 76 and 78 degrees. “First and foremost, I want to thank all of those in state government, and all North Carolinians who helped to curtail power consumption during the heat wave,” said Easley. “Taken together, these individual actions made a major contribution toward managing the overall load on the state’s electric utilities and avoiding a power emergency.” While the current heat wave and record-high temperatures have passed, there are more summertime high temperatures likely. Therefore, it is important that all North Carolinians conserve during the summer season. Also, all North Carolinians should remember to take precautions to avoid exposure to extreme heat by avoiding unnecessary outdoor activity, finding cool places, not leaving infants, children or pets in parked cars and drinking plenty of water. Other ways you can save energy include washing only full loads of clothes and dishes, installing a programmable thermostat or upgrading to more energy efficient appliances, using ceiling fans and shades. The North Carolina State Energy Office offers additional tips on power conservation on the Web at: www.energync.net. For more specific tips for avoiding heat injuries, visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s web site at: www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heat guide.asp. ### Governor's Press Office State Capitol, Raleigh, NC 27603-8001 (919) 733-5612 - Toll Free 1-800-662-7005 FAX (919) 733-5166