As temperatures are forecast to exceed 90 degrees for several consecutive days, PJM Interconnection, the regional electrical transmission organization, has issued a Hot Weather Alert for June 30 through July 3. The alert includes the area served by the University and reflects expectations for sustained high electricity demand during the upcoming heat event.

In response, University officials are asking faculty, staff and students to take simple but important steps to help reduce strain on the regional power grid and support reliable electrical service throughout the community.

Campus cooling advisory

Due to the forecasted extreme temperatures, the University’s chilled water districts will be operating to manage historic cooling demands across campus but may be constrained due to an overtaxed electrical grid. As a result, some buildings may experience higher-than-normal indoor temperatures during peak demand periods. To help stabilize our systems, the campus community is encouraged to follow campus conservation measures outlined below as well as dress appropriately for warmer indoor conditions during this period.

Campus conservation measures requested

Members of the campus community are encouraged to power down any discretionary electrical equipment and loads whenever possible. Energy conservation efforts should include:

• Turning off lights in unoccupied classrooms, offices, laboratories and common areas

• Closing windows and blinds where applicable

• Shutting down nonessential electrical equipment when not in use

• Adjusting locally controlled thermostats in unoccupied spaces to the highest practical setting, up to 80 degrees Fahrenheit

• Minimizing unnecessary energy consumption during peak daylight and afternoon hours

These conservation measures can help reduce overall demand on the electrical system during periods of exceptionally high temperatures when air conditioning use reaches its highest levels.

Regional grid under increased demand

Hot Weather Alerts are issued by PJM when weather conditions are expected to drive significantly higher electricity demand across the region. While an alert does not indicate an emergency, it serves as an important notification that grid operators, utilities and large energy users should take proactive steps to conserve electricity and maintain system reliability.

In extreme circumstances, local municipalities may be directed to manage electrical loads to reduce stress on the power distribution network. The City of Newark and other communities across the region could be asked to implement measures designed to support grid stability if demand approaches critical levels.

Be prepared for possible power interruptions

Although utility providers and grid operators work extensively to maintain reliable service during high-demand events, University officials encourage all members of the campus community to be prepared for the possibility of an unplanned electrical outage.

Faculty and staff are encouraged to:

• Save work frequently and back up important files

• Review continuity plans for critical operations

• Ensure that essential equipment is protected and operating according to departmental procedures

Students should:

• Keep electronic devices charged when possible

• Be aware of campus communications channels for updates

• Prepare for temporary disruptions to building services if outages occur

Working together during the heat event

By taking simple conservation actions, the University community can contribute to regional efforts to maintain electrical reliability during this period of extreme heat. University officials will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as needed.

For the latest campus information and emergency notifications, members of the university community should monitor official University communication channels throughout the alert period.

The Hot Weather Alert remains in effect from June 30 through July 3.