Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - December 12, 2000
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Warning of stage two energy alert lifted

OLYMPIA - The Emergency Response Team lifted the warning for a stage two energy alert across the Northwest region today, announced Dana Middleton, Gov. Gary Locke's press secretary.

In accordance with this, Puget Sound energy will not, for now, ask its interruptible electric service customers to cut back on their use of electricity, Middleton added. This means 212 schools and five businesses will again have power after regular hours.

However, Middleton added, people are encouraged to keep conserving energy in the coming winter months, especially during the peak hours of 6:30-8:30 a.m. and 4:00-8:00 p.m.

"We are in for roller coaster conditions this winter," Middleton said. "December is historically not our coldest month. January and February could be even colder and we could easily face again the kinds of problems we did this week. Setting our minds toward conservation will help us this season."

In addition to cold temperatures, Middleton blamed low reservoirs and erratic supplies in California for the tight power supply.

Power customers are still encouraged to wash dishes and clothes during off-peak times, and use one appliance at a time. Holiday lights at the state capitol will not be turned on until 8:00 p.m. The dome lighting will remain off and state employees will still be directed to conserve whenever possible.

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