This past weekend, a surge in electricity demand across the Mid-Atlantic region prompted a change at an area wastewater plant.
The electrical grid that serves the east coast, PJM Interconnection, was overloaded with demand when temperatures plummeted to the single digits at 4:20 a.m. Christmas Eve.
PJM asked large electricity users to curb their electricity use to save energy so there would be enough to power homes and smaller businesses.
The Norman Cole Pollution Control Plant in Lorton switched on five electrical generators, removing the plant from the electrical grid. The plant is key to Fairfax County’s wastewater treatment practices and treats 40 million gallons of wastewater a day.
The switch to backup generators returned an estimated 5,700 kilowatts back to the electrical grid for 14 hours, enough to power 4,500 homes, a county press release states.
Normally, electricity from the grid costs about 5 cents per kilowatt hour. The press release states that during this past weekend’s cold snap, prices rose to as much as $4.40 per kilowatt hour.
Christmas was one of the coldest in the past 40 years in our region, with low temperatures dipping below 10 degrees and wind chill factors making the air feel as it if were below zero. High temperatures were in the low to mid-20s.
Since the weekend, high temperatures have increased to the mid-40s.
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A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
