Power companies ask customers to curb use in heat

Delmarva Power urged Delaware and Maryland customers to conserve electricity Tuesday as forecasts pointed to mid-afternoon highs of 90 or higher and an heat index pushing into the upper 90s in some areas.

The appeal late Monday included notice that Tuesday will be a "Peak Savings Day" for Delaware customers, meaning bill credits for those who curb electricity use between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. The credit can amount to $1.25 for every kilowatt hour of reduced use during the savings period.

Customers participating in the company's Energy Wise Rewards program may have air conditioner compressors switched off for short periods during peak hours, although fans will continue to run.

The City of Newark also is asking customers to reduce their electricity use from 3-6 p.m. due to high demand.

AccuWeather, based in State College, Pennsylvania, forecast a 90-degree high for the Wilmington area, with "RealFeel" temperatures reaching 92 degrees as early as 11 a.m. and staying in the 90s until at least 4 p.m.

Southern Delaware temperatures are expected to peak at about 94 degrees at noon, although temperatures will feel as high as 99 during the early afternoon.

Conditions are expected to ease by evening, with highs forecast to reach the upper 80s through the rest of the week.

Although electricity supplies are expected to be adequate, Delmarva recommended postponing non-essential uses of major appliances such as washers, dishwashers and dryers and setting thermostats to 78 degrees.

Contact Jeff Montgomery at (302) 463-3344 or jmontgomery@delawareonline.com.