Pepco Asks Customers to Conserve Energy

Pepco is asking customers to turn off unnecessary electrical devices and limit the use of power wherever possible in an effort to keep the grid functioning during the hot weather expected through the weekend.

The power company, which serves much of the Washington, DC, area, including the Maryland suburbs, released a statement calling for customers to close blinds, turn off lights and limit the use of appliances through Friday evening. Some customers who are enrolled in an energy conservation program with the utility will have their air conditioning units automatically cycled on and off from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

"Pepco asks all of its customers to conserve energy Friday, August 3, as high temperatures are forecasted to affect the entire mid-Atlantic region," the utility said. "Power supply in the region is expected to be sufficient to meet anticipated high demand."

The weekend forecast includes high temperatures in the mid-90s with possible showers and thunderstorms, according to the National Weather Service.