Hamilton County Schools will close Wednesday after TVA calls on customers to reduce power usage

Hamilton County Schools will be closed Wednesday following an appeal from TVA and EPB that the community voluntarily reduce power usage between 6-10 a.m.

“Based on this request, it is our belief that not opening our approximately 80 schools will best serve the community’s needs at this time,” the system said in a news release.

EPB, the electric utility serving Chattanooga, said it’s issuing a power advisory a day in advance so customers have enough time to help save money on their energy bills and reduce potential strain on the power grid.

The utility urged customers to set their thermostats to between 65-68 degrees, postpone use of clothes dryers, dishwashers, stoves and ovens, and turn off nonessential appliances and lights.