The California Independent System Operator (ISO) has called for voluntary electricity conservation this weekend. The statewide Flex Alert begins today and extends through Monday, from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.
As temperatures soar above normal this weekend, the power grid operator is predicting an increase in electricity demand, primarily from air conditioning use. Overnight temperatures statewide are projected to be at least 10 degrees higher than normal, which doesn’t allow infrastructure to cool down.
High heat can limit the ISO’s ability to import energy to serve demand. ISO urges consumers to shift energy use to morning and nighttime hours, set air conditioning thermostats to 78 degrees, defer use of major appliances, turn off unnecessary lights, unplug unused electrical devices, close blinds and drapes, use fans when possible, and limit the time the refrigerator door is open.
Conservation can lower demand and avoid further actions, including outages, and lessen the duration of possible power interruptions.
For more information about Flex Alerts and electricity conservation tips, visit www.caiso.com.
