Norwich Public Utilities has issued a power alert this week, urging customers to conserve energy as temperatures climb into the 90s.
The utility company is asking residents to conserve power between noon and 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, which could amount to the state's first official heat wave of 2015.
This week's extreme heat and humidity will cause the demand for electricity to spike as customers work to cool their homes. This could tax the town's electrical infrastructure, according to the utility company.
Officials with Norwich Public Utilities are asking that customers take the following steps to conserve power this week:
- Set a central air conditioning system to 73 degrees and only run window units when you are home.
- Wait until after 6 p.m., when temperatures begin to drop, to use major appliances such as dishwashers or dryers.
- Cut down on the use of heat-generating appliances – including computers, curling irons, hair dryers, stereos and televisions – before 6 p.m.
- Use a microwave, stove or outdoor grill instead of an oven when possible
- Install energy-efficient light bulbs, which generate much less heat than traditional lighting.
- Close curtains or blinds to keep the sun out and minimize heat coming into your home.
Conserving electricity will also help minimize your yearly electric bill, since the company's annual rates are based on "peak days," according to the utility company.
