City of Columbiana asks residents to save power for a few hours Thursday and Friday

The City of Columbiana is asking their electric customers to consider saving power for a few peak demand hours on Thursday and Friday for the benefit of the community.

They're calling their request "Community Energy Savings Days" and ask that customers voluntariy lower their energy consumption from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday and Friday.

This is in effort to reduce electricity costs for Columbiana customers next year as lower demand during peak hours can help secure lower or more controlled rates.

"As a municipal electric system, owned by its citizens and customers, it is contingent upon those same citizens and customers to keep the electric rates for themselves and all other customers of City of Columbiana as low as possible. Our citizens and customers have the opportunity to make a difference in their system and their rates by conserving energy during these periods," says Lance Willard, Columbiana City Manager. 

They suggest that customers consider simple steps including shutting lights off when not needed, unplugging small appliances and charges, raising air conditioners a couple degrees, or doing laundry or other electricity consuming chores outside of peak hours. 

Willard assures that plenty of power is available and the grid is in good shape, but encourages customers to take the opportunity to help lower their rates while they can.