Mays Landing, N.J. Atlantic City Electric, set an unofficial new peak demand for electricity use yesterday as customers relied on air conditioning to cope with the soaring heat and humidity.

The previous peak of 2,838 megawatts set July 27, 2005 , fell at 4 p.m. Tuesday, August 1. The new, unofficial peak total is 2,925 megawatts. One megawatt of electricity is enough to power about 800 to 1,000 homes. The new peak won't be determined official until later in the week, but in the meantime, it likely will be overtaken today as the forecast predicts the temperatures will continue to climb. With heat indexes over the 100 degree mark, air conditioners pushed up power demand by continuously running to keep residences and businesses comfortable. While power supply is adequate, Atlantic City Electric is continuing to ask customers to use energy wisely, especially during peak usage hours between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Atlantic City Electric offers the following conservation tips:

• Close curtains and blinds to keep out the sun and retain cooler air inside your home, apartment or business.
• Postpone using major heat-producing appliances like electric stoves, dishwashers and clothes dryers until the evening hours; if possible, delay using them until the extreme heat subsides.
• Set your air-conditioner thermostat higher than usual, 75-78 degrees, if health permits.
• Turn off non-essential lights, appliances and equipment. This is especially important for business customers of all types.

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Atlantic City Electric, a public utility owned by Pepco Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: POM), provides safe, reliable and affordable regulated electric delivery services to more than 500,000 customers in southern New Jersey .