Utility companies are seeing a big spike in demand as stifling heat grips the Hudson Valley.

Many people enjoyed the first official weekend of summer by hitting the beach and pool, while plenty more stayed indoors, enjoying the comforts of air conditioning.

However, those comforts come with increased energy bills and increased demand on utility companies. "A good common sense tip is to set your thermostat on the highest safe, comfortable temperature. Use energy to be safe and comfortable, you don't want to use more than that. Close off rooms not in use. If you're in the living room with the AC close off the bedrooms and bathrooms," says Con Edison spokesperson Allan Drury.

Additionally, Drury says that the preparation for long, hot summers begins months ahead of time. "For the summer of 2021, we made about $1.5 billion in investments for new cable transformers and other components that make the system reliable. "