WASHINGTON, D.C. - For customers participating in Pepco's Energy Wise Rewards program in Maryland, Friday, Aug. 24, will be a Peak Savings Day, and a conservation event will be called from 2 to 6 p.m. This means that Pepco will cycle Energy Wise Rewards participants' air conditioner compressors off for short intervals during these hours. Because the air conditioner fans will continue to run, however, most customers will not notice a temperature change in their home, and those who do should experience only a 1- to 3-degree change. It may take up to a half-hour after the event ends at 6 p.m. for air conditioners to resume normal operations.

Energy Wise Rewards is a voluntary program that offers customers a choice of a programmable thermostat or an outdoor switch, which the utility installs at no charge to the customer. During summer periods of peak electric demand, Energy Wise Rewards works to reduce electricity usage by cycling central air conditioner compressors off for short periods of time during periods of peak electricity use. Maryland customers will receive a bill reduction in return for allowing Pepco to cycle their air conditioners a few days each year. Customers can learn more about Energy Wise Rewards by calling 1-866-353-5798 or visiting pepco.com/rewards.

Demand for electricity is expected to increase as the heat and humidity continue. Pepco asks all customers to conserve electricity. Customers can take simple conservation steps:

·         Set air-conditioning thermostats at 78 degrees and use an electric fan, which doesn't require as much energy, and the air will seem cooler without sacrificing comfort.

·         Limit the use of electrically heated water and turn off non-essential appliances and as many lights as possible.

·         Limit opening refrigerator or freezer doors.

·         Postpone using high-energy appliances like electric stoves, washing machines, dishwashers and dryers until the evening. 

      For more information and updates, visit www.pepco.com, follow us on Facebook and Twitter at PepcoConnect and download our mobile app at www.pepco.com/mobileapp.

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Pepco, a subsidiary of Pepco Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: POM), delivers safe, reliable and affordable electric service to more than 788,000 customers in Maryland and the District of Columbia.