Henrico County asks staff to cut electricity after 25% hike

Henrico County, Virginia, has asked its public employees, including teachers and first responders, to conserve electricity by turning off lights and shutting down computers to help offset a significant increase in the government's power costs. The directive came in an email from County Manager John Vithoulkas on June 26, ahead of a nearly 25 percent rate increase for electricity used in county and school facilities that took effect July 1.

The rate hike is expected to add an estimated $5 million to the county's expenses in the coming fiscal year, with further increases anticipated in future years. To mitigate the financial impact, Vithoulkas asked thousands of employees to make small adjustments in their workspaces. The recommendations include turning off lights when leaving, powering down computers at the end of the day, adjusting blinds to manage heat, unplugging unused appliances, and limiting the use of space heaters, which he noted can cost the county between $150 and $300 each annually.

A county representative confirmed the email's contents, stating it reflects good fiscal and environmental stewardship. The representative explained that Henrico County negotiates its...