IEC: Conserve electricity as heatwave peaks

J'lem expected to reach 38 degrees, 45 in Eilat; IEC expects record electricity demand, thinning reserves to 100MW.

By JPOST.COM STAFF
Children cool off in a Jerusalem fountain 370 (R) (photo credit: Ronen Zvulun / Reuters)
Children cool off in a Jerusalem fountain 370 (R)
(photo credit: Ronen Zvulun / Reuters)
The Israel Electric Corporation called on the public to limit electricity use on Wednesday, as the IEC predicted record-setting demand for electricity through the current heat wave.
Temperatures were expected to reach 37 degrees in Tel Aviv, 38 degrees in Jerusalem and 45 degrees in Eilat, driving electricity use as Israelis seek refuge from the heat in air conditioning.
Electricity customers were asked to refrain from using heavy appliances until after 5 p.m.
The total electricity production capacity in the country stands at 11,900 megawatts, IEC said. At its peak Wednesday, the IEC expects demand to reach 11,800 megawatts, leaving only a reserve of 100 megawatts.