State Officials Call Flex Alert
With continuous days of high heat and low electricity supplies, the California Independent System Operator has called a statewide Flex Alert through Thursday, especially during the peak times of 2 p.m. – 9 p.m.
The alert is an immediate call for the public to start conserving electricity. This will reduce stress on the statewide electrical grid, and help stave off possible rotating power outages.
“Electricity supplies statewide are expected to be tight because of high summer temperatures driving up demand, power plant outages, and transmission line import capacity reductions,” noted the system operator. “Power imports may be limited today because of high temperatures in neighboring states.”
The public can immediately limit electric usage by: turning off all unnecessary lights, setting air conditioners to 78 degrees or higher and postponing the use of major appliances until after 9 p.m.
The system operator issues these alerts hoping that conservation by the public will help decrease the demand on the electrical grid. Southern California Edison is asking customers to take part in the conservation efforts.
Other ways customers can conserve energy include:
- Turn off unused appliances and equipment.
- Use electric fans instead of air conditioning when practical.
- Shut off lights when leaving a room.
- Close drapes and blinds to keep out direct sunlight during hot periods.
- Avoid using evaporative coolers or humidifiers at the same time an air conditioner is running.
- Operate swimming pool equipment and energy-intensive appliances, such as dishwashers, washing machines and dryers, during early morning and late evening hours.
- Limit the opening and reopening of refrigerators, which are major users of electricity in most homes.
- When possible, businesses should shift power-intensive work processes to morning or late evening hours.
For more information on Flex Alerts: flexalert.org.
