Press Release

Con Edison is urging all customers in its Washington Heights network to discontinue their use of non-essential electrical appliances and equipment until problems on electrical feeder cables can be resolved. The utility is experiencing difficulties in this area and customer cooperation will help ensure uninterrupted electric service.

The Washington Heights network, which serves nearly 69,000 customers, is bounded by the Harlem River on the north and east, the Hudson River on the west and West 155th Street on the south. The affected neighborhoods include Washington Heights, Inwood, Fort George and Sherman Creek.

Company crews are working now to rectify the problem. Con Edison has asked customers in the affected areas not to use appliances such as washers, dryers, air conditioners and other energy-intensive equipment until the feeder cable problems are resolved. Other measures, such as turning off lights and televisions when not needed, also should be taken.

The feeder cable problems in the Washington Heights network have no effect on the rest of the Con Edison system. The supply of electricity is adequate, however, customers in other areas are advised to use electricity wisely in order to keep energy costs as low as possible.

Con Edison will provide updates to affected customers both directly and through the media as the situation warrants.