Air conditioners installed in a house in HCM City’s District 4. Power consumption in the city in April increased 12 per cent from March to reach 2.75 billion kWh. — VNS Photo Bồ Xuân Hiệp

HCM CITY — The HCM City Power Corporation (EVN HCMC) continues to warn of a potential power shortage due to a hike in consumption driven by prolonged hot weather, urging customers to adopt energy-saving measures.

Power consumption in the city exceeded 2.75 billion kWh in April, up 12 per cent from March, according to a report by the corporation.

Several days saw power usage exceeding 100 million kWh, with figures reaching 101.5 million kWh on April 24, 104 million kWh on April 25, and 103.5 million kWh on April 26.

The increased use of cooling devices such as air conditioners due to prolonged hot weather has significantly contributed to the hike in power consumption.

While May is expected to see a slight decrease in temperatures compared to April, the unseasonably warm weather is forecast to continue, according to the corporation.

“The prolonged hot weather has led to water shortages in key hydropower reservoirs, impacting electricity production,” it said.

Bùi Trung Kiên, deputy general director of EVN HCMC, recommended regular maintenance of air conditioners at least once every three months to reduce electricity usage, as well as extend the appliance’s lifespan.

For homes and offices, adjusting the air conditioner temperature to 26 degrees Celsius or higher is recommended.

It’s important to power down appliances when not in use, utilise air conditioning conservatively, and opt for energy-efficient cooling equipment.

He also recommended delaying the turning on of air conditioning units by 60 minutes and shutting them off 60 minutes earlier than usual working hours.

Retail establishments and service providers should limit decorative lighting after 10pm and participate in load reduction programs if necessary.

Industrial facilities are encouraged to conduct some production activities during later hours after 10pm.

Traffic light systems should adjust their timing to operate 30 minutes later and shut off 30 minutes earlier, reduce lighting intensity on less-travelled roads after 10pm, and cut advertising lights and decorative lighting by 50 per cent or completely turn them off from 10pm onwards.

“Efficient electricity usage not only saves costs for consumers but ensures a stable power supply for the city,” said an EVN HCMC spokesperson.

City authorities have ordered agencies and districts to effectively implement energy-saving measures to ensure power supply in the coming summer season. — VNS