WCEC Prepares for Freezing Temperatures

Wharton County Electric Cooperative has been keeping an eye on the forecasts for later this week and throughout the weekend. Forecasters are calling for freezing temperatures and the possibility of high winds throughout our service territory. At this time, no precipitation is expected, but we have been fooled by Mother Nature before. High winds can cause power outages, especially when combined with even the smallest amount of ice accumulation on power lines.

WCEC crews will be on standby for any possible outages and will be ready begin restoration efforts once it is safe to do so. During an outage, WCEC crews work to restore power to the largest number of people first. After power is restored to the cooperative’s main feeders, our crews then address issues in smaller neighborhoods or at individual homes. WCEC is asking all members to prepare for the possibility of power outages throughout this weather event.

Our Outage Central offers tips on preparing for outages, outage safety, and our outage restoration process. There is also a live Outage Map.

In addition to keeping up to date with the weather, WCEC is also monitoring ERCOT predictions for the week. The Electric Reliablity Council of Texas is assuring everyone across the state that there will be adequate generation to meet the demand the freezing temperatures will cause. At this time, there is no indication that rotating outages will be necessary. As a reminder to our members, if ERCOT issues an emergency alert calling for rotating outages, we must comply. If this happens, our team will do all that we can to notify our members through social media and our website as quickly as possible.

Members of the public can visit ERCOT.com or download the ERCOT app through the Apple or Android app stores for updates on statewide grid conditions.

WCEC encourages everyone to prepare for frigid temperatures over the next few days.

• Monitor weather conditions for your location.
• Protect the four P’s: people, pets, pipes, and plants.
• Power outages are possible with high winds coming through – have a plan in place to safely stay warm without power.
• Have backup power at the ready for any needed medical equipment.
• Only use heating sources that are safe for indoor use.
• Do not run generators in enclosed spaces.

To report an outage, call 979-543-6271. During large outages, phone lines can get very busy. If necessary, we may implement an automated system. To report an outage through this system, you will need the phone number connected to your account, your account number, or your meter number. Rest assured that if outages occur, crews will be working to restore power as soon as it is safe to do so.

One final reminder, with extreme temperatures, comes high power use. Your heater will be working overtime to keep your home warm. Here are a few tips to help you use less energy, but still keep your home comfortable:

• Set your thermostat to 68 degrees or as low as possible for your comfort. The lower your thermostat, the less your heater will run. Bundle up with sweaters and blankets to help keep warm and cozy.
• Caulk or seal any air leaks around windows and doors. 
• Replace or clean the filter in your central heating unit to allow it to run as efficiently as possible.
• Avoid space heaters for continued heating. They can be costly to run for even short periods of time.
• Monitor your daily energy use through the SmartHub app or online. 

If you are concerned about high usage and/or the cost of your next bill, we can help. Our CSRs are always ready to share tips or discuss payment arrangements at 979-543-6271.

Stay safe, stay warm. And know that WCEC will be here if you need us. That’s the Cooperative Way.