September 4, 2022 - FOLSOM, Calif. – As the state moves into the most intense heat of the summer, the California Independent System Operator (ISO) is preparing for challenging grid conditions over the next several days, and calling on Californians to lower electricity use during Flex Alerts.
A Flex Alert is in effect today from 4 to 9 p.m., when consumers are urged to set thermostats to 78 degrees or higher, avoid using major appliances, and turn off all unnecessary lights.
Additional Flex Alerts will likely be called as heat will only intensify through Tuesday, with little relief from triple-digit temperatures seen over the next several days. Daytime high temperatures are forecast at 10-20 degrees above normal in much of the state through the Labor Day weekend and into next week, and record-breaking heat is projected in some parts of California.
Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday in particular are shaping up to be the most difficult of this heat wave. Tuesday’s peak demand is forecast to be 50,087 megawatts (MW), just shy of the all-time record of 50,270 MW set in 2006. For more information, see the ISO’s Peak Load History report.
Grid operators are closely monitoring three wildfires – Route Fire, Border 32 Fire, and the Mill Fire -- with varying threats to transmission lines. State fire officials have warned that more fires could break out in the coming days, adding to the risk of lost lines or generation.
Several generators have already been forced out of service, making supplies tighter.
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.
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
