Electric News Releases - 1999

July 19, 1999

Dominion Generation Preparing For Another Heat Wave

RICHMOND, Va. – Dominion Generation, a unit of Dominion Resources Inc. (NYSE: D), expects tight supplies of electricity this week as the second July heat wave puts the East Coast under the broiler.

"Right now, we have adequate, but tight, supplies of electricity. This hot weather is putting pressure on a large region, not just one state," said Jim O'Hanlon, Dominion Generation president and chief operating officer. "Customers could help by using energy wisely and conserving where and when they can."

Weather services are projecting temperatures to climb to and hold at high levels for the second time this month. The highest demand for electricity this week is expected to reach 15,300 megawatts Monday afternoon.

Dominion Generation manages the U.S. electric generating power stations of Virginia Power and Dominion Energy, two subsidiaries of Dominion Resources. Information about Dominion Resources can be obtained on the World Wide Web at www.dom.com.

Dominion Generation met a record peak demand from its Virginia Power customers of 16,216 mw on July 6. One megawatt will supply the power needs of 250 typical homes.

The following conservation tips require little or no expense and could help lower electric bills while keeping homes comfortable.

• Postpone activities that require hot water – such as washing dishes or clothes – to early morning or late evening. This will keep from adding more heat and humidity to the home.
• Raise the temperature setting on the thermostat. For every degree raised, customers can save as much as 3 percent on cooling costs.
• Turn off unnecessary incandescent lights during hot weather. They only add to the heat in the home. Consider switching to cooler, energy-efficient fluorescent bulbs where light is needed.
• Use ceiling fans and portable floor fans to move the air around in the home. If the home does not have air conditioning, fans are essential for cooling. In homes with air conditioning, fans allow residents to raise the thermostat and save energy without affecting comfort.
• Close drapes during the hottest times of the day to block heat from entering the home and save energy.
• Make sure window air conditioners are sized correctly. Ones that are too small will run constantly but not cool the room. Ones that are too large use more energy than necessary.
• Clean filters to window air conditioning units or clean or replace filters to central air conditioning systems. Clogged filters cause air conditioners to use more energy to keep rooms or homes cool.
• Clear attic vents. If the home has an attic fan, make sure it is functioning properly.

Virginia Power, in conjunction with the Virginia Department for the Aging, provides box fans through the Fan Care program to elderly Virginians who need help cooling their homes. Elderly customers who need such assistance are encouraged to call the Department for the Aging at 1-800-552-3402 or contact their local Area Agency on Aging office.

###