New River Light and Power encourages summer energy preparedness 

A bright sunny view of Boone from above on a summer day. Thanks to App State Communications for the photo

BOONE, N.C. — With summer just around the corner, App State’s New River Light and Power (NRLP) is encouraging customers to start planning for the warmer months and take simple steps to prepare for summer energy use. 

Periods of hot weather typically bring higher electricity demand across the region and state. Planning ahead can help customers stay comfortable, manage costs and support reliable service for everyone. 

NRLP recommends a few easy ways to reduce energy use during peak summer days:

• Set thermostats a few degrees higher when possible
• Use ceiling fans to improve comfort
• Delay use of large appliances like dishwashers and dryers until after peak hours of 4–8 p.m.
• Turn off unnecessary lights and electronics 

While the High Country typically sees its highest energy demand during winter months, periods of high summer demand across the state still require coordination and small actions from all communities to support reliability — and conserving energy is worthwhile at every season.

“Small changes at home can make a meaningful difference, especially during the hottest days of the year,” said Jenny Miller, NRLP’s customer service supervisor. “When our community saves energy, it helps support reliable service and saves customers money on monthly bills.”

As part of overall summer preparedness, NRLP is also sharing information about how the broader electric system operates during periods of especially high demand. 

During peak conditions, NRLP may receive notifications from Duke Energy, which manages the statewide electric grid. Duke Energy may issue Energy Emergency Alerts (EEAs) to utilities across the state to balance grid conditions. 

These alerts are part of a standardized process used to maintain grid reliability. When NRLP receives an alert, the utility takes appropriate steps, which may include adjusting operations, coordinating with community partners and — when needed — encouraging voluntary, short-term reductions in electricity use by customers. 

“Energy Emergency Alerts are one of the ways the broader electric system works to maintain reliability during peak demand,” said Matthew Makdad, the utility’s general manager. “They allow utilities to respond in a measured and coordinated way when conditions are tight.”

Most customers will not notice when these alerts occur, but they play an important role in keeping the system running smoothly during periods of high demand. If conditions require customer awareness or action, NRLP will communicate through various channels, including its website, through emails and social media platforms. 

NRLP encourages customers to learn more about summer energy tips and how the utility prepares for peak demand by visiting the NRLP Resource Center. 

About App State’s New River Light and Power

For over 110 years, New River Light and Power (NRLP) — a nonprofit electric utility operated by Appalachian State University — has provided reliable power to residents of Western North Carolina. The utility currently serves approximately 9,000 residential and commercial customers in and around Boone, including the university. NRLP is dedicated to expanding access to higher education and contributes annually to the university’s general scholarship fund. Additionally, the utility awards NRLP scholarships to support graduating Watauga County high school seniors pursuing an App State education, as well as those interested in pursuing a career in linework. NRLP holds the American Public Power Association’s Reliable Public Power Provider and Smart Energy Provider designations, recognizing its commitment to safety, efficiency, renewable energy and environmental stewardship. Learn more about App State’s New River Light and Power at https://nrlp.appstate.edu.