September 9, 2022 - FOLSOM, Calif. – The California Independent System Operator (ISO) issued a statewide Flex Alert, a call for voluntary electricity conservation, for today, Sept. 9, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., due to a prolonged heat wave pushing up energy demand and tightening available power supplies.

The ISO also issued an Energy Emergency Alert (EEA) 1, effective today from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., which signals that supply deficiencies are expected, and market participants are encouraged to offer more energy bids.

With above-normal temperatures continuing in the forecast across much of the state, the power grid operator is expecting high electricity demand, primarily from air conditioning use, and is calling for voluntary conservation steps to help balance supply and demand.

The Flex Alert is scheduled between 4 p.m.and 9 p.m., when the grid is most stressed from higher demand and less solar energy. During that time, consumers are urged to conserve power by setting thermostats to 78 degrees or higher, if health permits, avoiding use of major appliances and turning off unnecessary lights.

To minimize discomfort and help with grid stability, consumers are also encouraged to pre-cool their homes and use major appliances and charge electric vehicles and electronic devices before 4 p.m., when conservation begins to become most critical.

Reducing energy use during a Flex Alert can help stabilize the power grid during tight supply conditions and prevent further emergency measures, including rotating power outages.

To learn more about EEA designations, view the Emergency Notifications fact sheet.

For more information, see our Rotating Power Outages fact sheet.

Learn more about conserving energy or sign up for text notifications at www.FlexAlert.org.

Flex Alert Conservation Actions Before 4 p.m.:
 Pre-cool home by setting the thermostat to as low as 72 degrees
 Use major appliances, including: Washer and dryer, Dishwasher, Oven and stove for pre-cooking and preparing meals
 Charge electric vehicles
 Adjust blinds and drapes to cover windows

From 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.:
 Set thermostat to 78 degrees or higher, if health permits
 Avoid using major appliances and charging electric vehicles
 Turn off all unnecessary lights
Source: CA. ISO