MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The A/C is a welcomed relief from the summer heat, but flipping it on could create new challenges for MLGW.
The problem, WREG was told, is tied to a substation on Highway 70 which services nearly 7,000 customers in the Lakeland and Arlington area.
On Monday, equipment failure sparked a huge fire leaving a lot of damage behind
It’s weakened the voltage in the area.
“We have not had a mandatory black out in recent history. this would be the first in recent history if we have to go there. hopefully not,” said Gale Jones Carson.
MLGW said rolling black outs are simply a last option.
Instead they’re hoping people in Arlington and Lakeland can help them by cutting back on their electricity by doing things like drying their clothes after 8 p.m., running the pool pump overnight and cranking the thermostat to 80 degrees.
“It’s hot for me, but if that helps we got to do what we got to do for each other right?” said Bob Wilkinson.
Others told WREG that’s just not possible.
“I have my family here and want to make my house is kept cool. Turning my thermostat up to 80 degrees, I think is ridiculous,” said Bobby Davis.
MLGW said they hope rolling blackouts don’t happen, but it’s only mid-July and repairs could take six months at the substation.