Santee Cooper Prepared for Winter Storm
MONCKS CORNER, S.C. – Santee Cooper team members are prepared for the anticipated effects the winter weather may have on Santee Cooper’s service territory from Jan. 24 through Jan 26. Approximately 2 million South Carolinians depend on the state-owned electric and water utility as their power source, either directly or through the state’s electric cooperatives.
As of 4 p.m. today, Santee Cooper went to Operating Condition (OpCon) 2 alert status. This means a threat to Santee Cooper’s electric system is imminent or has occurred, but effects are limited or still uncertain.
Customers can report outages at stormcenter.santeecooper.com or 888-769-7688. For electric safety information, including generator and downed power line safety, visit https://www.santeecooper.com/community/electrical-safety/.
How You Can Help
Heating is responsible for much of the increased electricity used during extended cold weather. Heat pumps work harder and longer to make up the difference in temperatures, which increases electricity use. Cold and freezing temperatures also may cause your emergency heat, or heat strips, to activate, which uses more electricity.
Customers can take the following steps to help use less energy while staying comfortable in their homes:
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Set the thermostat to 68 degrees or lower during winter weather.
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Stay warm by bundling up in sweatshirts, sweaters, socks, slippers and/or blankets.
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Seal air leaks around windows and doors to prevent cool air from coming into your home and warm air from escaping.
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Close window coverings at night to help keep out drafts.
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Change your air filters regularly. Dirty air filters cause your heat pump to work harder.
“Santee Cooper appreciates the help of our customers as we work together during this winter weather event,” said Marty Watson, Senior Director, Commercial and Customer Service.
