Recently I received a letter from Utah Power, apologizing for Ogden's many recent electricity outages. The letter went on to explain that these outages have been caused by the rapid increase in electricity demand, much of this new demand coming from central air conditioning systems.
While I find it hard to believe that central air conditioners caused the outages that we experienced in December and April, I suppose there could be some truth to what Utah Power is saying. Perhaps, with all their crews busy installing new distribution systems to feed the central air conditioners, they've been neglecting routine maintenance at the Ben Lomond substation.
The sad thing is, nearly all of these new central air conditioners are unnecessary. Summers in Utah are hot, yes, but they are also dry, and even during the hottest spells, nighttime temperatures drop into the 60's.
Through intelligent use of windows, window shades, fans, trees, basements, and shaded patios, almost anyone in Utah can keep cool during the summer. It's also helpful, though not absolutely necessary, to have a light-colored roof and a well-ventilated (and insulated) attic. These time-tested technologies require more thought and effort than adjusting a thermostat, but they also connect us with the outside world, and with our parents and grandparents who lived in simpler times. Far better than living our entire lives in sealed-up boxes.
I'm not saying there's anything wrong with occasional use of an air conditioner, say when company arrives at mid-afternoon. But in our dry climate, a swamp cooler will serve this purpose just as well, for thousands of dollars less.
Let's get into the habit of using less electricity now, before Utah Power raises our rates again to pay for all those new distribution systems.
Dan Schroeder
Ogden
Last modified on 15 July 2002.