(Allentown) -- The heat wave has led to a new record peak for power demand from PPL Electric customers. The demand reached more than 7,600 megawatts by yesterday afternoon, which is nearly 100 megawatts higher than the company's previous summer record set in 2006. Yesterday's demand also surpassed PPL's highest winter peak of more than 7,500 megawatts demanded, which was set in 2007. The PJM Interconnection, the company that oversees operation of most of the state's transmission grid, set its peak demand record Thursday. A PPL spokesman says customers can save energy by keeping window shades and blinds closed and reducing the use of heat-generating appliances, such as dishwashers and ovens.