Canadians cut AC use as heat wave tests power grids

Rising temperatures are pushing up electricity bills. Some Canadians are finding ways to stay cool without cranking the AC.

Experts quoted in recent coverage recommend shading windows, using fans, and delaying appliance use to off-peak hours. "On a day when I hear most of our neighbours using their air conditioner, we can usually last another day or two without the air conditioner," one expert said.

The behavior shift, if sustained, could reduce peak demand growth for utilities in hot regions. The read-through is most direct for regulated utilities where summer load drives a disproportionate share of annual earnings. Unregulated power producers with merchant exposure could also see lower spot prices during heat waves if conservation dampens demand spikes.

No specific companies were named in the report. The trend toward efficiency is not new. The current heat wave is giving it fresh attention.