Electric Customers Urged To Reduce Usage

AUSTIN (AP) – The electric grid operator for most of the state is asking residents and businesses to reduce afternoon electricity usage because of the extreme heat.

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas and the Public Utility Commission urged Texans to reduce their electricity use Tuesday during peak electricity hours from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Kent Saathoff, ERCOT vice president of system operations, says no electricity emergencies are expected, but that the grid operator will be monitoring the situation closely.

Residents and businesses are asked to set thermostats at 80 degrees or higher, to cool with fans and to close blinds and turn off unnecessary lights and appliances.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

AP-NY-08-04-08 1316EDT