Tagged: public utilty commission

With Austin’s growth comes some changes. This morning, the Public Utility Commission voted to adopt a new area code for the Austin area. The 737 area code will be introduced to the 512 in July of 2013.

Commissioner Ken Anderson says the transition shouldn’t be difficult for Austinites.

“We’ve had ten digit dialing in North Texas for a long time. So welcome to the 21st century,” said Anderson.

Ten digit dialing will be phased in starting this December.

Triple-digit heat is putting pressure on the state’s electrical system. Texas set a record yesterday for peak demand during the month of June. Officials with the Electric Reliability Council of Texas are asking everyone to reduce electricity use from 3 to 7 p.m. That means turning up your thermostat by a couple of degrees and avoiding use of large appliances during those hours.

The City of Austin and the State of Texas are some of the largest energy users in the city.

Carlos Cordova is with Austin Energy. He says the city relies on Austin’s Energy’s Load Cooperative program for alerts about peak usage and to track incentives for reducing use.

What Do You Think of Area Code 737?

The Public Utility Commission wants to hear from Central Texans this morning about the plan to add a new area code.

Because of population growth and the popularity of cell phones, the commission says 512 numbers are running out and numbers with a 737 area code will soon be added.