Energy Ministry sets guidelines for winter power consumption

AMMAN — The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources on Saturday called on the public to reduce power consumption during periods of higher electric loads in the winter.

According to a ministry guidebook, cited by the Jordan News Agency, Petra, the best use of power enables high efficiency with lower consumption and ensures the best use of devices and equipment.

As for power consumption guidelines in the winter, the ministry said that traditional heating methods, such as those using kerosene, gas cylinders and diesel, are considered systems with lower costs compared with other systems.

The guidebook also called on the public to periodically maintain their heating systems to reduce the amount of fuel needed, as well as ensure that the flame is blue to ensure the best efficiency.  

As for water heaters, the ministry called for setting temperatures at 60°C or less than the maximum temperature to avoid explosions due to boiling water, as well as checking the thermostat. If the thermostat is damaged, the ministry noted, this may also lead to explosions. 

The guidebook also urged people to use the shower instead of bathtubs and to periodically check water lines. The guidebook recommended people to isolate hot water pipes to prevent heat leakages, which can cause further damage.

Statistics by the National Electric Power Company and the ministry show that power consumption in the household sector exceeds 40 per cent of the total electric power produced in the Kingdom.