Because of the hot and humid weather, PP&L, Inc. is asking customers to use energy wisely. With high temperatures and humidity expected to continue, the demand for electricity will remain high throughout the day Friday (6/26). PP&L, Inc. does not expect to set a summer electricity use record today.

To protect the supply of electricity in the region, PP&L, Inc. asked a group of about 80 large industrial customers to curtail their use of electricity Friday afternoon, based on the provisions of the company's interruptible service rate.

These customers have special contracts that enable them to buy power at a lower price in exchange for agreeing to temporary interruptions of their electric service for emergency or economic reasons.

Other customers can help by using energy wisely and shifting the use of major electric appliances, such as washing machines, clothes dryers, dishwashers and electric stoves, to early morning or evening hours, said Bill Whitehead, PP&L, Inc.'s manager of Transmission and Distribution Operations.

"At this time, we don't expect to use emergency measures that would directly affect the bulk of our customers," he added.

Other measures customers can take to save electricity are:
-- Set air conditioner thermostats at 80 degrees, or use fans instead.
-- Block out daytime sun with drapes and shades to help keep the home cool.
-- Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible.
-- Turn off TVs and other home entertainment equipment when no one is watching or listening.

"Following these guidelines will help avoid possible power shortages, but people's primary concern should be their health and safety," Whitehead said. "Customers should use the electricity they need to avoid the adverse health effects of oppressive heat."