With the mercury approaching -20 degrees Celsius, Hydro-Québec is anticipating a peak in electricity consumption on its network over the next few days. How can we reduce our consumption through simple gestures? 

On its website, the utility shares tips for minimizing your electricity footprint during cold spells like these. 

What is a consumption peak? There are two types: annual or daily, and they occur when demand for electricity peaks and the Hydro-Québec network is at its busiest because so many customers are using heat or energy-consuming appliances at the same time. The grid is then congested.

In Quebec, peak periods occur in winter due to heating needs. In winter, annual peaks occur between December and March. On a day-to-day basis, they are noticeable on weekdays, in the morning between 6 and 9 a.m., and at the end of the day, between 4 and 8 p.m. 

Simple gestures make all the difference

Here are some simple steps you can take to make a difference during the coldest weather: 

1) Reduce heating by 1°C or 2°C, especially in unoccupied rooms;

2) Postpone the use of major appliances such as the dryer and dishwasher; 

3) Shorten shower times by one minute;

4) Limit the use of hot water wherever possible.