Peak energy alert issued by SE Minn co-ops Wednesday

Aug. 11—Several Southeastern Minnesota energy companies have issued peak energy alerts beginning at 2 p.m. Wednesday.

The companies issuing the alerts include People's Energy Co-op (Oronoco), MiEnergy (Rushford), Freeborn-Mower Electric Co-op (Albert Lea), and Heartland Power (St. Ansgar).

All members are urged to reduce electrical usage until after 6 p.m. Members enrolled in energy management strategies, or load control, can expect to be affected between 2 and 8 p.m. Wednesday.

Members can conserve electricity by:

— Setting their air conditioner to 78 degrees, especially if no one is home.

— Running the dishwasher or doing laundry later in the evening.

— Using a microwave or grill instead of the oven to cook dinner.

— Refrain from turning on televisions or gaming systems.