Pepco and the other utilities in the mid-Atlantic region today requested that the public conserve electricity because of very high demand for power due to the intense heat and humidity. 

While adequate supplies of power are available, the PJM Interconnection, the electricity grid operator for the region, is taking precautions to ensure the reliability of the transmission system during this time of heavy usage of the grid. Electric customers in the region are asked to conserve power, if health permits, especially between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.

The potential for setting a record could occur based on the demand from Pepco's 745,000 plus customers.  The previous peak-demand record of 6,725 megawatt was set July 27, 2005.

Pepco offers the following conservation tips:

• Close curtains and blinds to keep out the sun and retain cooler air inside your home, apartment or business.
• Postpone using major heat-producing appliances like electric stoves, dishwashers and clothes dryers until the evening hours; if possible, delay using them until the extreme heat subsides.
• Set your air-conditioner thermostat higher than usual if health permits.
• Turn off non-essential lights, appliances and equipment. This is especially important for business customers of all types.

Pepco will continue to monitor conditions.  PJM is communicating about the situation with regional government officials.  The PJM-East pool serves customers in Pennsylvania , New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia.

Further measures by PJM could be avoided if both residential and commercial customers observe conservation measures in their electricity use during this period of extreme heat and humidity.

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Pepco, a subsidiary of Pepco Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: POM), delivers safe, reliable and affordable electric service to more than 745,000 customers in Maryland and the District of Columbia.