Heat Wave Prompts All-time High for Electricity use in Kissimmee for Second Consecutive Day

As the heat index in the Kissimmee region topped 110 degrees on Tuesday, residents set a new all-time record for electricity use.

Kissimmee Utility Authority recorded an instantaneous system peak of 439.2 megawatts at 5:12 p.m. on Tuesday. On Monday, the utility recorded a system peak load of 435.7 megawatts, shattering the previous record of 416.2 set on July 13, 2022.

With heat indices forecasted to remain above 100 degrees through next week, air conditioners are working overtime. KUA offers the following energy-saving tips that require little or no expense and can help to reduce summertime energy costs:

• Set the thermostat on the highest comfortable setting (KUA recommends 78-80 degrees). Raising the temperature just two degrees can reduce cooling costs by as much as five percent.
• Change or clean air conditioner filters monthly. Dirty filters can increase operating costs by 20 percent.
• Use ceiling and portable fans to keep air moving. Fans only use about as much energy as a light bulb.
• Close blinds, drapes and shades during the hottest part of the day. This keeps the sun’s rays from heating the house.
• Track energy use on KUA’s customer portal, my.kua.com
• Schedule a free energy audit with one of KUA’s Certified Energy Auditors at kua.com/save