The highest demand for power in New England typically occurs in the summer, when peak demand ranges from 19,000 to 23,000 megawatts. An all-time record demand of 25,348 megawatts was reached in August 2002.

During the winter, peak demand typically ranges from 17,000 to 19,000 megawatts.

Maine Public Utilities Chairman Kurt Adams said 400 megawatts could be saved through voluntary conservation by consumers.

If a “power warning” is issued, consumers are asked to:

. Turn off unnecessary lights, computers, copiers and other office equipment.

. Delay running dishwashers and doing laundry until after peak power demand time ends at 8 p.m.

. Turn off electric space heaters.

. Keep cooking and bathing to a minimum until after 8 p.m.

The Associated Press