Huntsville Utilities is asking customers in the Tennessee Valley to reduce their power consumption as the year’s first extended heat wave settles over the region.

Heat advisories are in place for much of Alabama, with “feels like” temperatures forecast to soar as high as 108 degrees Tuesday. The heat is expected to persist at least through Wednesday, according to AL.com.

Huntsville Utilities is requesting customers limit their use of electrical devices during peak hours – noon to 8 p.m. – by not running major appliances like dishwashers, washer/dryers, ovens and stoves, and turning off unnecessary lights.

The utility says the request is a result of the Tennessee Valley Authority implementing its “Emergency Load Curtailment Program.” Huntsville Utilities itself “has turned off all non-essential lights and electric equipment in (its) own buildings, as well as adjusted building thermostats,” according to a news release

A TVA spokesperson said the load curtailment program is standard procedure for utilities when demand is expected to rise. Duke Energy made a similar request Monday and Tuesday of customers in the Carolinas.

Grid loads are expected to top 31,000 megawatts, well short of the TVA’s all-time peak demand record of 35,319 megawatts, set in January. No grid problems arose during the January event, according to TVA.

Besides helping ensure a reliable power grid, reducing energy use can save on your power bill. TVA offers tips to conserve energy and money on its website.