January 23, 2013 – Hydro-Quebec says it is anticipating record power consumption due to the extremely cold weather conditions prevailing now and forecast for the next few days. System demand is expected to reach a historical peak of 39,000MW, exceeding the 37,717MW peak recorded on January 24, 2011.

All of its production facilities are in operation but, to give the utility greater operating margin, Hydro-Quebec is asking for cooperation from the public to reduce power consumption during peak periods. It is asking for reduced power usage during these peak hours:

• January 23 from 7 am to 9 am, and 4 pm to 8 pm
• January 24 from 7 am to 9 am

Hydro-Quebec suggests lowering the thermostat temperature by a degree or two (Celsius) in all rooms, especially those that are unused; postponing using major appliances (especially dryers and dishwashers) by a few hours; limiting the use of hot water as much as possible.

The utility says it will also reduce heating and lighting in all its administrative buildings in Quebec, and the lights on the logo and the mural of Mousseau at head office will be turned off.