The Marblehead Municipal Light Department is asking residents to eliminate all non-essential electric use 4:30-8 p.m., due to a heat-related power shortage.
“Unseasonably hot weather is continuing today and tomorrow,” wrote MMLD General Manager Joe Kowalik this afternoon. “Last night a large power generator on the grid went offline, causing a power supply shortage that temporarily sent prices spiking 25 times their price today. The grid operator hasn’t returned the system status to normal. So we ask you to eliminate all non-essential electric use today from 4:30 to 8 p.m., including electric appliances, electronic equipment and electric vehicle chargers.”
Kowalik continued: “An even higher energy peak is forecast for tomorrow, so this same message applies to 4:30 to 8 p.m. tomorrow. We thank you for your cooperation.”
The National Weather Service has declared a heat advisory in Marblehead from June 18 at noon through June 21 at 7 p.m. There is also an air quality alert.
Fire Chief Jason Gilliland said he will set up a cooling center at the Brown or Veterans schools, if anyone needs one. Call 781-631-1212.
