KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) – As temperatures are expected climb near the triple digits in the Monadnock Region next week, Eversource says the energy company is prepared to meet the increased demand for electricity.

WKBK Staff Meteorologist Joe Sciacca is predicting temperatures to reach as high as 96 degrees on Monday and bring along high humidity, and temperatures are expected to remain high through Wednesday. During the summer months, Eversource says customers in New Hampshire use about 20% more electricity to keep cool, running air conditioners and fans, which can grow as the state experiences multiple heat waves – as it did last year.

High electricity usage during a heat wave can put a strain on the electric system, and the power company says crews are ready to respond to any outages or issues that may arise, and system operators are monitoring the system and are ready to reroute power and shift to other resources as necessary, according to a news release.

“We’re always preparing for whatever the weather may bring so our customers have reliable electric service during every season, especially the hot and humid days of summer when air conditioners and fans are cranking,” said Eversource President of New Hampshire Electric Operations Bob Coates. “To make sure the grid can handle the increased demand during extreme heat in the summertime, we regularly conduct ground and aerial inspections of the electric distribution system so we can detect and address any issues in advance of a potential problem.”

Eversource offered customers some tips on how to manage energy use during the summer;

  • Keep air conditioners set as warm as comfort allows. For every degree higher on the thermostat, the air conditioner will use 1-3% less electricity.
  • Don’t block air flow. Keep air vents and heat pump vents clear of obstructions such as furniture, curtains, and rugs.
  • Operate major appliances during the cooler parts of the day. Energy is conserved by using appliances that create heat, like clothes dryers and dishwashers, early in the morning or late in the evening. There is also less demand on the electric system during these times.
  • Keep blinds closed to prevent unwanted direct sunlight from entering a home through windows. Using curtains, shades, and blinds can lower indoor temperatures by up to 20 degrees.
  • Set ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise and at a higher speed in the summer to circulate the air more effectively, creating a cooling, wind chill effect. Remember to turn the fan off when leaving the room – fans cool people NOT rooms.
  • Grill outside and keep the chill inside. Cooking outside keeps heat created by stove/oven outside of the home.

Eversource is also reminding customers that increased energy usage comes with a higher energy bill, and that even if the thermostat is set at the same temperature all summer, it will use more electricity when its hotter outside because the system is working much harder to maintain that temperature.

Several programs are available to help manage energy costs—especially for those struggling to keep up with bills.

Among the options is the New Start Program, which helps income-eligible customers reduce or even eliminate overdue balances. By making regular on-time payments, customers can see a portion of their enrolled balance forgiven each month, potentially clearing the debt in as little as a year.

Customers who meet certain income guidelines may also qualify for a Discount Rate through the Electric Assistance Program, which lowers monthly bills.

In addition, Flexible Payment Plans are open to all customers—regardless of income—offering manageable ways to pay off past-due balances over time. Budget Billing Plans are also available, allowing customers to pay a predictable monthly amount based on average annual usage to avoid seasonal bill spikes.

Eversource also encourages customers to explore its Energy Efficiency programs, which offer incentives and solutions to reduce both energy use and costs.

For more information or to enroll in a program, customers can call 800–662–7764 or visit Eversource.com.