The University of Iowa may be asked to curtail its use of electricity for up to 6 hours at a time as part of an agreement with MidAmerican Energy to help manage the peak load on very hot summer days. The agreement stipulates that this may happen up to 16 times between June 1 and September 30. Last summer (2007) we had one curtailment. In 2006, we had four curtailments and the summer before (2005) there were several. In 2004, there were no curtailments. By being willing to curtail, the contract provides a financial incentive to the University.
When curtailed, MidAmerican Energy will give the university as much notice as possible, but this may be as little as two hours notice. Occupants of General Fund buildings will be notified via email.
A variety of curtailment methods have been identified in various buildings. To determine the curtailment strategy used in your building, please visit the Buildings link below.
For more information: Contact Work Control Center (facilities-wcc@uiowa.edu) 335-5071
» Beat the Heat Tips (.pdf)
