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The region’s first real blast of extreme heat this year has passed, but it may not be long before Mother Nature turns up the thermostat again. PPL Electric Utilities has helpful tips and resources for its customers looking for ways to stay comfortable, be more energy-efficient and save on utility costs.

During days with higher temperatures and humidity, demand for power and energy consumption increases sharply as air conditioners and other cooling appliances work harder and consume much more electricity. Electric demand last week peaked at 7,362 megawatts on Thursday afternoon (7/8), just behind the all-time summer record, 7,554 megawatts, set Aug. 1, 2006.

“Last week’s heat wave may have broken, but summer is still young and we know there will be many hot days ahead,” said Thomas C. Stathos, director of Customer Programs and Services for PPL Electric Utilities. “Our E-power programs, Energy Analyzer, and various other tools and programs all can help keep customers cool and may help keep their bills down.”

PPL Electric Utilities offers the following programs to make a cool difference for consumers when it comes to the heat:

Energy Analyzer. This tool is available to customers at www.pplelectric.com and allows homeowners and small businesses to track their monthly, daily and even hourly energy usage. They also can receive tips to lower their usage and save money. Just click on myPPL to register your account and log in. 

E-power. The E-power programs offer rebates on the purchase of new ENERGY STAR® air conditioners, refrigerators and other appliances. Additionally, the company offers incentives to recycle older refrigerators, freezers or window air conditioners. Financial incentives for investing in energy-efficient appliances and equipment, as well as for getting energy audits or home assessments, are available for residential and business customers. Go to www.pplelectric.com/e-power to find out more.

Payment options and assistance. PPL Electric Utilities stands ready to help its customers who may have difficulty paying bills driven by seasonally higher usage. Budget billing can spread your bill into equal payments over 12 months to avoid seasonal swings. Additionally, payment agreements may be available for those in a financial bind. Customers who qualify also are referred to community agencies that can help with payment plans as well as free energy efficiency programs. To find out more, visit www.pplelectric.com and select “Need help paying your bill?” on the Quick Links menu. You can call us toll-free at 1-800-358-6623 to discuss a payment arrangement.

“e” Store. When shopping for energy-efficient products such as programmable thermostats, ceiling fans, lighting and more, customers can find discounts at the “e” Store link www.pplelectric.com/e-power.

Learning Center. A wealth of information on heating, cooling, energy efficiency and other energy topics can be found at the ENERGYsmart Library by going to the E-power links menu at www.pplelectric.com/e-power.

“We encourage customers to explore our Web site and find out more about how they can gain more control over their energy use. In temperature extremes like summer heat or winter cold, being energy smart can go a long way to maintain comfort while managing costs,” Stathos said.

PPL Electric Utilities Corporation is a subsidiary of PPL Corporation (NYSE: PPL) that provides electricity delivery services to about 1.4 million customers in Pennsylvania. It has consistently ranked among the best companies for customer service in the United States. More information is available at www.pplelectric.com.