As winter approaches, PECO crews have been hard at work to prepare the company’s natural gas and electric systems for the increased demand of the heating season. This proactive work includes critical infrastructure upgrades designed to strengthen the local energy grid, reduce the risk of power outages, and enhance resilience against severe winter weather.

PECO is investing nearly $10 billion during the next five years across its electric and natural gas systems to complete targeted system enhancements and corrective maintenance, invest in new equipment, inspect equipment, and perform necessary tree trimming and other vegetation management.

As part of PECO’s ongoing commitment to safety and reliability, the company has inspected equipment, completed necessary repairs or replacements, performed preventive maintenance, and installed new natural gas main and service lines to extend service to additional customers. PECO continues to accelerate work to replace existing natural gas main and service lines with new plastic pipe, which enhances safety, is more durable, improves service, and reduces methane emissions.

In addition, PECO has also inspected more than 9,600 miles of aerial electric lines and 1,600 manholes to make any needed repairs to underground electric equipment.

“Delivering safe, reliable, and resilient service is always our top priority, especially during periods of extreme temperatures,” said Nicole LeVine, PECO senior vice president and COO. “Colder months also means higher usage, and we’re committed to helping our customers use energy more efficiently and connecting them with financial assistance programs like the PECO Customer Relief Fund to help manage higher energy bills.”

PECO also encourages customers to stay safe and save on their energy bills with several resources:

Save Energy, Save Money

Increased energy use during the colder winter months can lead to higher bills. Energy efficiency programs, like energy assessments, can help customers save energy and money by identifying opportunities throughout a home. To learn more about PECO’s residential programs visit http://www.peco.com/waystosave.

By following a few simple tips and making straightforward energy efficiency improvements now, customers could save 20 percent or more on their winter heating bills.

• Keep it sealed. Caulk around doors, windows, and any openings for utility services. Using the locks on your windows helps make a tighter seal that is more resistant to drafts. If you have a fireplace, keep your damper closed when the fireplace is not in use.
• Upgrade your insulation. Insulating your home can significantly reduce your heating costs. Reducing air leaks – around floors, ducts, fireplaces, doors, and plumbing – could cut your home’s average monthly energy bill by 10 percent.
• Check ducts for air leaks. Look for joints that are no longer connected. Leaky ductwork can increase your energy bill significantly.
• Be prepared for cooler weather. Remove screens and air conditioners from windows and install storm windows.
• Do not heat unused areas. Close vents in unused rooms and shut doors to unused rooms, closets, and basements.
• Take advantage of the sun’s heat. Open curtains on windows during the day to allow sunlight to naturally heat your home and close them at night to reduce the chill from cold windows.

Storm Safety

While PECO works to prevent as many outages as possible, severe storms can cause damage and power outages. Customers can act now to prepare for severe weather by visiting peco.com/storm.

In addition, customers can visit peco.com/alerts to sign up to receive updates on their energy usage and information regarding power outages via text, email, or phone, including when power is out, when service is expected to be restored, or when power is restored.