Energy companies urge conservation

Hot enough for you?\nResidents can expect another sweltering weekend of temperatures hovering near 90, which has caused regional energy suppliers to warn increased electricity consumption is putting a strain on the electric grid.\nWith little relief from the heat until next month, the Midwest Independent Transmission System Operator declared an Energy Emergency Alert Tuesday for several states, including Indiana.\nDuke Energy is asking customers to voluntarily reduce nonessential electric consumption to ensure production remains stable and reliable.\nThat means holding off on using appliances like stoves, dishwashers and washing machines and raising room temperatures during the day when demand is at its peak. Energy officials also recommend turning down air conditioners, using fans when and where appropriate, closing blinds, curtains, or drapes and insulating air ducts. \nDuke Energy customers set a record for electricity use of 6,602 megawatthours for the hour ending at 6 p.m. Monday. The previous record of 6,409 mwh was set July 25, 2005.\nEnergy officials claim indoor cooling below 75 degrees in the summer can double the energy bill. For each degree cooled below 78, cooling bills can rise as much as 10 percent.\nFor more tips about energy conservation and efficiency visit http://www.IPLpower.com and http://www.duke-energy.com.