INCLINE VILLAGE, Nev. — NV Energy officials are urging electric customers to conserve Tuesday and Wednesday between 2-9 p.m. to offset energy supply issues caused by a record-breaking heat wave.

The National Weather Service in Reno issued a heat advisory and fire weather watch from Reno down through Minden and is calling for possible showers and thunderstorms for the Incline Village area.

NV Energy says conservation is the best way to reduce strain on the local power grid.

“We understand that many of our customers are home during this time due to the pandemic, and appreciate any small changes they can make to reduce their energy use today,” said Josh Langdon, NV Energy vice president of transmission, in a press release. “By conserving energy together we will help prevent the current Western United States energy supply shortage from escalating into a more serious reliability problem.”

Officials say effective measures to conserve energy include: 

• Turn off lights and pool pumps
• Unplug appliances not in use, avoid using large electrical appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines and electric clothes dryers
• Adjust the thermostat to 78 degrees or higher to reduce the use of air conditioning, barring any medical issues, and use ceiling fans to cool people and pets. Pre-cool your home prior to 2 p.m.
• Keep the refrigerator and freezer closed as much as possible
• Close window coverings to keep the heat out
• Do not charge electric vehicles between 2 and 9 p.m.

For more information, visit nvenergy.com.