McMaster asks South Carolinians to cut back on energy use during extreme cold

COLUMBIA, S.C. — With temperatures dropping into the single digits and teens, Gov. Henry McMaster is asking South Carolinians to ease up on energy use, especially during the early morning hours. 

State officials say the biggest concern is between 4 and 10 a.m., when a lot of people are waking up, turning up the heat and running appliances at the same time. That sudden surge in demand can put extra strain on the power grid and raise the risk of outages.

“Cold weather just drives up heat demand on our state’s power grid,” said Erin Siebert, energy policy manager with Conservation Voters of South Carolina. “Heat pumps have to work harder and longer, which means they’re using more electricity.” And it’s not just icy roads or downed power lines that can cause problems. Siebert said extreme cold can also impact power plants themselves, with some equipment freezing or failing to operate as expected. 

Utilities like Dominion Energy say small changes at home can help and can also save money. Matthew Long, a senior communications specialist with the company, said heating your home is the biggest driver of winter energy bills.

“Every degree difference on your thermostat can make a difference,” Long said. Even turning the heat down by a degree or two can help your system work a little less during extreme cold. 

McMaster is encouraging residents to turn off unnecessary lights and devices, avoid running washers, dryers and dishwashers during peak hours, and close window coverings at night to keep out drafts. Officials also recommend keeping vents and interior doors open so heating systems can circulate air properly.

For some people, conserving energy means finding a balance between staying warm and being prepared.

Columbia resident, Anthony Morgan said concerns about power outages have made him more mindful. “I unplug my space heaters at night and block drafts from the windows,” Morgan said.