NYISO and NYSEG Expect to Set New Electricity Load Records; NYSEG Offers Safety and Usage Tips in Anticipation of Extreme Heat and Humidity

Rochester, NY, July 17, 2006 – The New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) is predicting a new statewide record peak load for electricity of 33,000 megawatts (MW) this afternoon. The current record of 30,075 MW was set on July 26, 2005.

In addition, NYSEG is forecasting a new peak load record of approximately 3,150 MW. The previous record of 3,050 MW was set on August 4, 2005.

NYSEG wants to assure its customers that it has an adequate supply of electricity to satisfy their energy needs. While the NYISO has not ordered NYSEG to implement any actions to reduce customer usage, NYSEG urges customers to use electricity wisely and efficiently.

NYSEG encourages customers to consider the following safety and usage tips:

• Keep curtains and drapes closed to keep the sun out of your house
• When outside temperatures rise above indoor temperatures close windows and doors to keep the heat out
• Consider using fans instead of air conditioners
• When you do use air conditioners, keep the thermostat set at 78 degrees or higher
• Turn off air conditioners when you leave home
• Turn off unused lights, TVs, computers and stereos
• When the weather permits, hang laundry outside to dry instead of using a clothes dryer 
• Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration
• Wear loose fitting and light colored clothes
• Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day.

About NYSEG: NYSEG is a Rochester-based subsidiary of Energy East Corporation [NYSE:EAS], a super-regional energy services and delivery company in the Northeast. We serve 854,000 electricity customers and 254,000 natural gas customers across more than 40% of upstate New York. By providing outstanding customer service, promoting competition and focusing on growth, we will continue to be a valuable asset to the communities we serve. For more information about NYSEG, visit nyseg.com.