Austin Utilities has issued a peak energy alert until 8 p.m. this evening.

Reducing air conditioner use, shutting off lights, and using appliances like dishwashers or warshing machines after 8 p.m. are all small steps that can help. Every action helps during a peak alert period.

The alert is not a request for facilities to turn off electrical loads that would affect the performance of employees or equipment. It is not meant to lower production output. It is only a request to turn off non-essential loads during the peak hours today.