The Austin Utilities Company has issued a peak energy alert for Thursday until 8 p.m.

Utilities officials urge residents to reduce energy usage, such as air conditioners, dish washers and appliances to ease the energy strain.

This 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.