Norwich — As the excessive heat and humidity persists, Norwich Public Utilities has issued a power alert and is encouraging customers to conserve energy for the next three days.

NPU expects to see high demand for electricity through the end of the week and is urging customers to use electricity wisely in the days ahead to reduce costs and wear and tear on the utility's infrastructure. A portion of NPU’s annual costs for electricity is based on “peak demand” days, which based on forecasts from ISO-New England, could take place Thursday or Friday. By using energy efficiently for the next few days, customers can help keep overall electric costs, for NPU and themselves, lower throughout the year, NPU said in a news release.

Secondly, by curbing electricity use, the overall impact on NPU’s infrastructure, such as transmission lines, distribution lines and transformers, will be minimized. By reducing use in the next few days, this critical equipment will be able to cool down faster in the evening hours and overnight, helping improve overall reliability, NPU said.

“During extreme weather, we sometimes have to ask our customers to help us manage our system for our mutual benefit,” NPU General Manager Chris LaRose said in the alert. “By using energy wisely, customers can save money on their bill and reduce the likelihood of power outages over the next three days.”

NPU requests customers take steps that will have little or no impact on their comfort. These include:

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[naviga:li]Run a window unit only when someone is home. NPU recommends setting a central AC system to 73 degrees or higher.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Wait until after 7 p.m. to use major appliances, such as a dishwasher or clothes dryer.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Minimize the use of appliances or devices that generate heat before 7 p.m., including computers, curling irons, hairdryers, and televisions.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Avoid using the oven and instead consider using a stove, microwave or outside grill.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Install energy-efficient lighting that runs much cooler than traditional lighting; only about 10-15% of the electricity that incandescent lights use results in light, the rest is turned into heat.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Install window coverings to minimize the heat coming into a home or business.[/naviga:li]

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“As always, we ask that everyone keep an eye out for those who may have a tough time in extreme weather, particularly the elderly or infirm, to make sure everyone stays safe during the extreme heat this week,” LaRose said.