IESO Plans Routine Voltage Reduction Test

TORONTO, ONTARIO - The Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) is planning a routine voltage reduction test for Thursday, January 19, 2006.

"Voltage reductions are an important emergency control action that can help protect the reliability of the power system and reduce the need for rotating power outages," said Paul Murphy, Chief Operating Officer of the IESO. "The IESO must conduct periodic tests to ensure we are prepared for actual system emergencies," said Murphy.

A province-wide voltage reduction of three per cent will take place between 9:30 am and 11:30 am followed by a five per cent reduction from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm.

The vast majority of electricity consumers will not notice that the test is occurring as the voltage will remain within the industry standards specified for electrical equipment used by residential and commercial consumers. Consumers with questions about the test or who experience problems on January 19 should contact their local distribution company by calling the customer service number on their electricity bill. A list of local distribution companies is available at: www.ieso.ca/findutility.

More information about voltage reductions is available on the IESO website at: http://www.ieso.ca/imoweb/siteShared/voltage_reduction.asp?sid

bi or by contacting customer relations at 1-888-448-7777.