The hottest days of the summer have hit Butler County and in an effort to conserve power and money, the Central Electric Cooperative is asking residents to take part in their Beat the Peak initiative.

Beat the Peak asks residents to conserve power July 27 between the hours of 1 and 7 p.m. by turning off non-essential electric items and raising your thermostat a few degrees to help conserve energy.

By decreasing electricity used during high-demand periods — when prices are at their highest — residents can help stabilize future power costs for all members.

Other steps include running your dishwasher and laundry early in the morning or later evening, turning off dehumidifiers during the day, turning off unnecessary lights and electronics that generate heat and to cook meals on the grill or use counter top appliances such as a Crock-Pot.

Other Beat the Peak announcements take place on weekdays June through September between the peak hours of 1 and 7 p.m.