MELVILLE / BROOKLYN, N.Y.–Due to unprecedented extreme frigid temperatures driving increased demand combined with interstate pipeline disruptions, National Grid is asking all of the company’s natural gas customers in Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island and on Long Island to reduce usage through tomorrow afternoon without sacrificing safety.

Owners of natural gas pipelines have reported that equipment problems caused by the cold weather and the heavy demand for natural gas are challenging their ability to provide adequate amounts of gas throughout the Northeast. Though the issues are on pipelines that are outside of National Grid’s service area and not owned or operated by National Grid, the company is seeking conservation to keep service reliable for its customers. Your support will help keep service available for all.

Along with urging customers to conserve, the company has called upon its commercially contracted customers who participate in the demand response program to switch to alternative fuels. The company is also utilizing its liquefied natural gas units for additional supply to serve customers.

Here are some simple ways to reduce gas usage without significantly impacting comfort:

• Turn your thermostat down just five degrees for residences if you are at home, and to 60 degrees if you are not at home or operating a business.
• If possible, avoid using fireplaces, clothes dryers and other appliances that use gas, which are not critical to safety or health.
  
  

National Grid has more than 1.9 million natural gas customers in the New York Metro area and on Long Island. By reducing their usage, customers can help ensure enough supply to keep the network at sufficient pressures to ensure reliable service for all customers.

“Ensuring safe and reliable service for our customers and the communities we serve is our number one priority and concern,” said Ross Turrini, Chief Operating Officer, National Grid. “We appreciate the support of our customers in helping to ensure the stability and reliability of the system for all by taking these conservation measures.”

The company is in contact with New York City Emergency Management and local agency partners to coordinate on response and continue safe and reliable service for customers.

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