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Energy Emergency Alerts (EEA)

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Energy Emergency Alerts (EEA): 
What They Mean for You

During extreme weather or periods of high electricity demand, the regional electric grid can become stressed. To ensure the system remains reliable, the Southwest Power Pool (SPP), which oversees the power grid in our area, may issue an Energy Emergency Alert (EEA).

An EEA is a structured, step-by-step process designed to prevent widespread outages and protect the integrity of the electric grid. By calling for conservation early and escalating only when necessary, these alerts help ensure that electricity remains available for homes, farms, and businesses across the region. In extreme situations, controlled, temporary outages may be necessary as a last resort to prevent a larger, uncontrolled system failure.

Raccoon Valley Electric Cooperative works closely with our power suppliers, Corn Belt Power Cooperative and Basin Electric Power, to monitor these conditions and keep our members informed every step of the way.

Conservation Alert (Pre-EEA)

Conserve Energy – Important Conservation Alert

Due to extreme weather and higher-than-normal electricity use, SPP may ask utilities and their members to begin conserving energy.
 

What does this mean for RVEC members:

  • Conservation is encouraged but not required
  • Small actions can make a big difference in reducing strain on the grid
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Simple ways to help:

  • Adjust your thermostat a few degrees
  • Delay use of large appliances (washers, dryers, dishwashers)
  • Turn off unnecessary lights and electronics

If conditions worsen, an official Energy Emergency Alert may be issued. This early step helps reduce the chance of more serious measures later.

EEA Level 1 – Voluntary Conservation Requested

Energy Emergency Alert Issued – Please Conserve Energy

SPP has issued an EEA Level 1 due to high electricity demand.
 

What does this mean:

  • This is an early warning stage
  • Voluntary conservation is requested
  • Outages are not expected at this time
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How you can help:

  • Adjust your thermostat (lower in winter, higher in summer if safe)
  • Avoid using large appliances
  • Turn off and unplug non-essential items

Your efforts at this stage can help prevent further escalation.

EEA Level 2 – Urgent Conservation Needed

Energy Emergency Alert Issued – Urgent, Conserve Energy Now

SPP has escalated to EEA Level 2 due to extremely high demand and tightening energy supplies.
 

What does this mean:

  • The grid is under significant stress
  • Conservation is critical to maintaining reliable service
  • The risk of outages is increasing if demand remains high
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Take action now:

  • Adjust your thermostat a few degrees
  • Delay all non-essential appliance use
  • Turn off and unplug unnecessary lights and equipment

Strong participation during this stage can help avoid the need for controlled outages.

EEA Level 3 – Controlled Outages Possible

Energy Emergency Alert Issued – Notice of Possible Brief Outages

SPP has declared an EEA Level 3, the most serious level, due to extreme demand and limited available power.

What does this mean:

  • All available generations are being used
  • Utilities, including RVEC, may be required to implement temporary, rotating outages
  • Outage is typically brief (around one hour) and is used to prevent widespread system failure
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Please continue to conserve energy:

  • Adjust your thermostat if possible
  • Avoid using large appliances
  • Turn off and unplug non-essential items

These temporary outages are a controlled, protective measure designed to stabilize the grid and restore normal operations as quickly as possible.

Return to Normal Operations

Thank You for Conserving Energy

SPP has lifted the Energy Emergency Alert as conditions have improved and demand has stabilized.
 

What does this mean:

  • Normal operations have resumed
  • No additional conservation is required at this time
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RVEC thanks our members for their cooperation. Your conservation efforts played a critical role in supporting grid reliability and minimizing service disruptions.

Working Together for Reliable Power

Energy Emergency Alerts serve as a vital tool for safeguarding the electric grid and maintaining long-term reliability. When members take small steps to conserve energy during these events, it can significantly benefit the entire cooperative.

We appreciate your partnership in helping keep power safe, stable, and available for everyone.