Press Releases

The Brownsville Public Utilities Board (BPUB) recommends customers conserve electricity while the cold weather continues to cause high demand for power starting at 6 p.m. Dec. 24 through 6 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 25.

Attempts to restore electrical service to certain areas have been unsuccessful because of the sudden large demand of electricity required once the area is re-energized. Unplugging or turning off equipment while experiencing an outage helps prevent that sudden surge of electrical demand and should allow additional customers to regain service.

BPUB recommends that customers without power unplug devices and ensure their thermostat is turned off. Once service is restored, BPUB asks that customers slowly plug back in equipment and turn things on but to still try to limit use to essential activities.

BPUB recommends the following to conserve electricity:

• Set the thermostat at 68 degrees. Special consideration should be given to the ill, elderly, and children.
• Turn off unnecessary electronics or appliances such as washers and dryers.
• Turn off the lights in any room not being used.
• Avoid using large appliances, like ovens and washing machines
• Close shades and blinds to reduce the amount of heat lost through windows.

BPUB thanks customers for their continued support during the cold weather event.  Our crews have been working continuously to ensure that electrical customers who experienced service interruptions were back online as quickly and as safely as possible.