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PROVIDENCE, R.I. (June 30, 2026) – Rhode Island Energy (RIE) is encouraging customers to take simple steps to stay safe and comfortable while managing energy use as temperatures rise and extreme heat impacts the region.

Hot weather can increase electric demand, particularly during afternoon and early evening hours when air conditioning use peaks. With extreme heat approaching triple-digit temperatures across the state and potential thunderstorms rolling in, RIE is prepared and working to maintain safe, reliable service for customers.

“We are committed to delivering safe, reliable, and affordable energy for our customers, especially during periods of extreme weather,” said Greg Cornett, President of RIE. “As temperatures rise, we encourage customers to take a few simple steps to stay cool, use energy efficiently, and check on neighbors who may need additional support. By working together, we can help maintain reliability while keeping our communities safe and comfortable.”

Stay safe during extreme heat

RIE encourages customers to prioritize health and safety during high temperatures:

• Stay hydrated and limit time outdoors during the hottest parts of the day.
• Use air conditioning when possible or seek out cooling centers or public spaces in your community.
• Never use grills or generators indoors, which can create dangerous conditions.

Manage energy use and stay comfortable

Small actions can help customers stay cool while managing energy costs:

• Avoid running major appliances like dishwashers, washers, and dryers during peak heat hours to reduce indoor temperatures.
• Unplug large electronics when not in use to limit excess heat and conserve energy.
• Set air conditioners a few degrees higher, if comfortable, and use fans to help circulate air.
• Take advantage of natural ventilation when possible, opening windows during cooler parts of the day.
• Adjust heat pumps rather than turning them off to maintain efficient operation.
• Charge electric vehicles during off-peak hours, such as overnight.
• Take cool showers or baths to stay comfortable without relying solely on air conditioning.

Reducing energy use during peak demand periods can help ease strain on the electric system and lower energy costs.

Be prepared and stay informed

Rhode Island Energy encourages customers to stay informed and take simple steps to prepare for changing weather conditions:

• Charge mobile devices in advance.
• Keep flashlights, batteries, and water on hand.
• Sign up for outage alerts and notifications.
• Report outages promptly if they occur.

Customers who rely on life-sustaining medical equipment are encouraged to contact RIE to ensure their account information is up to date.

For cooling center and resource info during extreme heat, check with your local municipality or the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA).

Additionally, RIE reminds customers that it offers various programs and services to help save energy, manage bills, and access financial assistance.

Customers can take advantage of the following programs today:

• Sign up for Budget Billing and spread your payments evenly across 12 months.
• Explore the benefits of energy efficiency through our rebate programs or a no-cost Home Energy Assessment.
• Take advantage of direct support offered through the Good Neighbor Energy Fund, our Discount Rates program, and LIHEAP.
• Reach out to our Customer Advocates - these dedicated team members will help you identify the best assistance solutions.

For more information on these programs and for additional bill help resources, please visit rienergy.com/toolkit.

About Rhode Island Energy 

Rhode Island Energy provides essential energy services to over 770,000 customers across Rhode Island through the delivery of electricity and natural gas. Our team of more than 1,300 employees is dedicated to helping Rhode Island customers and communities thrive, while supporting the transition to a cleaner energy future. Rhode Island Energy is part of the PPL Corporation (NYSE: PPL) family of companies addressing energy challenges head-on by building smarter, more resilient, and more dynamic power grids and advancing sustainable energy solutions.  

For more information visit www.RIEnergy.com and stay connected on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.