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State Warns Rotating Outages Likely Amid Record High Temps

In addition to Flex Alerts each day through Wednesday, the California Independent System Operator is warning that record-breaking heat will likely cause power outages. SCE is asking customers to continue energy conservation efforts.

UPDATE: CAISO announced that today's Flex Alert will now take place from 2 - 9 p.m. Customers are urged to continue conserving energy.

As a record-breaking heat wave continues throughout the state, the California Independent System Operator has called Flex Alerts each day from 3–10 p.m. through Wednesday and warns of possible rotating outages over the next two days.

In a statement released earlier today, CAISO states: “California’s record-breaking persistent heat wave has put extraordinary strain on the ISO electric system, as air conditioners are working harder and longer to keep spaces cool during the high temperatures. Because of high heat and limited energy supplies, rotating power outages are likely over the next two days.”

Southern California Edison and other electric utilities are partnering with the state to encourage residential and business customers to conserve energy, especially during high-usage periods from 3–10 p.m.

In addition to setting thermostats at 78 degrees, customers are encouraged to use their blinds and disconnect devices that are not being used. SCE customers can also access rebates, programs and other energy-saving tools at:
energy saving tips. As more customers take these actions, conservation will go a long way.

SCE recognizes that many families are home working during the pandemic, and the difficulty our customers have when power goes out during a heat wave, or when they experience rotating outages. These outages typically last about an hour, and we have SCE crews ready to respond to any additional repair outages that occur, due to the high temperatures.”

Jill C. Anderson, SCE Senior Vice President

“SCE recognizes that many families are home working during the pandemic, and the difficulty our customers have when power goes out during a heat wave, or when they experience rotating outages,” said Jill C. Anderson, SCE senior vice president of Customer Service. “These outages typically last about an hour, and we have SCE crews ready to respond to any additional repair outages that occur, due to the high temperatures.”

Information on CAISO rotating outages, including the communities that may be affected, can be found at: sce.com/rotatingoutage
. Rotating outages typically last about an hour but may be shorter or longer depending on the circumstances.

Customers can report or inquire about outages at 800-611-1911 and get the latest information using the SCE outages app at
sce.com/outages. You can also get information and updates by visiting: sce.com/staysafe, twitter.com/sce and facebook.com/sce.

SCE reminds customers that if they see a downed power line, stay away and call SCE at 800-611-1911 or call 911.

Here are some other ways customers can conserve energy:

  • Set your thermostat to 78 degrees when you are home and to 85 degrees or “off” when you are away.
  • Cook with a grill outside, or microwave, to keep your home cooler.
  • Give your air conditioner a rest when you can and cool your home with open windows and fans.
  • Shut off lights when leaving a room.
  • Close your blinds to keep out the afternoon heat.
  • Limit the opening and reopening of refrigerators, which are major users of electricity in many homes.
  • Plug home electronics into power strips and turn off power strips when equipment is not in use.
  • Unplug electronic devices and chargers when they aren’t in use. Give your dryer a break and hang-dry your clothes.
  • When possible, businesses should shift power-intensive work to morning or late-evening hours.