Austin Public Utilities has issued a peak energy alert until 8 p.m. on Tuesday.

Officials urge reduction of energy use, such as reducing air conditioner use, shutting off lights or running the dishwasher later in the evening or early morning. Every action helps during a peak alert, utilities officials say.

This is not a request for facilities to turn off electrical loads that would affect the performance of employees or equipment. It is not meant to lower production output. It is only a request to turn off non-essential loads during the peak hours today.