July 29, 2002

RICHMOND, Va. - With temperatures in Virginia predicted to be near 100 degrees and the humidity making it feel like 110, Dominion (NYSE: D) has ample supplies of electricity to meet what is expected to be an all-time high for energy demand.

"All of our power stations are available and we have ample reserves," said Thomas F. Farrell II, chief executive officer of Dominion Energy. "Still, we are asking customers to use electricity wisely and even more important to take the proper safety precautions to protect their health during this extremely hot weather."

Dominion anticipates that it will meet a peak demand record Monday. The current record of 16,515 megawatts was set Aug. 9, 2001. As of 9 a.m. Monday, Dominion Energy's power stations were generating about 500 megawatts ahead of that record pace.

Daytime temperatures across the state are expected to range from the mid- to upper 90s, with the hottest temperatures being in the Richmond and Hampton Roads areas. The heat index, which is a measure of the combined effect of heat and humidity, is expected to be close to 110 degrees.

To stay safe in this uncomfortable weather, Dominion urges everyone to:

• Avoid strenuous outdoor activity. If you must work outside, take frequent breaks and drink plenty of fluids. Don't wait until you are thirsty.
• Stay indoors in a cool place, especially during the afternoon when temperatures are highest.
• If you must go outdoors, wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Try to wear natural products such as cotton and avoid synthetics.

Dominion Virginia Power is especially concerned about the elderly. The company, in conjunction with the Virginia Department for the Aging, provides box fans through the Fan Care program to elderly Virginians who need help cooling their homes. Elderly customers who need such assistance are encouraged to call the Department for the Aging toll free at 1-800-552-3402 or contact their local Area Agency on Aging office.

The following energy conservation tips require little or no expense and could help lower electric bills while keeping homes comfortable:

• Postpone activities that require hot water - such as washing dishes or clothes - to early morning or late evening. This will keep from adding more heat and humidity to the home.
• Raise the temperature setting on the thermostat. For every degree raised, customers can save as much as 3 percent on cooling costs.
• Turn off unnecessary incandescent lights during hot weather. They add to the heat in the home. Consider switching to cooler, energy-efficient fluorescent bulbs where light is needed.
• Use ceiling fans and portable floor fans to move the air around in the home. If the home does not have air conditioning, fans are essential for cooling. In homes with air conditioning, fans allow residents to raise the thermostat and save energy without affecting comfort.
• Close drapes during the hottest times of the day to block heat from entering the home and save energy.
• Make sure window air conditioners are sized correctly. Ones that are too small will run constantly but not cool the room. Ones that are too large use more energy than necessary.
• Clean filters to window air conditioning units or clean or replace filters to central air conditioning systems. Clogged filters cause air conditioners to use more energy to keep rooms or homes cool.
• Clear attic vents. If the home has an attic fan, make sure it is functioning properly.

Dominion is one of the nation's largest producers of energy, with a production capability of more than 3 trillion British thermal unit of energy per day. Dominion also serves 3.8 million franchise natural gas and electric customers in five states. For more information about Dominion, visit the company's Web site at www.dom.com.

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