Extreme Heat and Higher Energy Demand: What Customers Should Know

Extreme heat can increase electricity use across our community, especially during peak afternoon and early evening hours as cooling systems work harder.

While higher demand doesn’t always lead to service interruptions, simple actions at home can help reduce strain on the grid and support reliable service for everyone. InnPower crews continue to monitor the system and are ready to respond if needed.

How to Reduce Demand During Extreme Heat

Small changes at home can make a big difference during periods of high electricity use.

We recommend:

• Raise your thermostat a few degrees
• Use fans before lowering A/C
• Run major appliances later in the evening
• Keep blinds closed during the hottest part of the day
• Turn off unused lights and electronics
• Charge devices ahead of time

Peak electricity demand is often highest between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. during extreme heat. Reducing energy use during these hours can make the biggest impact.

Be Prepared If The Power Goes Out

Summer weather can be unpredictable, and it's always a good idea to be prepared.

Before an Outage

• Build an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, bottled water, and non-perishable food
• Charge phones, power banks, and essential devices
• Keep your refrigerator and freezer closed as much as possible
• Have a plan for pets, young children, and elderly family members
• Know where your electrical panel is located
• Save important emergency contact numbers

If you rely on electricity for medical equipment, make sure you have a backup plan in place during extreme weather.

Know How to Report an Outage

If the power goes out:

• Check if your neighbours are also without power
• Check your breaker panel for tripped breakers
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible
• Unplug sensitive electronics to protect against power surges
• Use flashlights instead of candles whenever possible

View our outage map

Report an outage

Stay Safe Around Downed Powerlines

Always assume downed powerlines are live.

Stay at least 10 metres back — about the length of a school bus — and call 911 immediately.

Never touch or attempt to move wires, trees, or objects that may be in contact with powerlines.

InnPower continuously monitors the system and is prepared to respond when needed. We appreciate our customers doing their part to help manage electricity use during periods of extreme heat.