Flex Alert issued for California Tuesday and Wednesday during heat wave
SAN DIEGO (KUSI) — The California Independent System Operator Corporation (Cal-ISO) — which manages the state’s power grid — asked residents to conserve energy Tuesday and Wednesday, during the peak of an ongoing heat wave.
A Flex Alert was issued Monday for 2 to 9 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, at which time residents were asked to voluntarily conserve electricity and ease demand on the state’s system while air conditioner usage is typically at its peak.
RT @flexalert: #ISO issues a #FlexAlert for tomorrow, 6/20 & 6/21 to #ConserveEnergy from 2-9pm. More info: https://t.co/EJK56s642m
— SDG&E (@SDGE) June 19, 2017
The Cal-ISO asked residents to conserve energy by:
- Setting thermostats at 78 degrees or higher
- Closing drapes to block the sun and using fans to cool rooms
- Turning off unnecessary lights and appliances
- Delaying use major appliances like dishwashers and washing machines until the morning or late in the evening.
- Visit air-conditioned ‘Cool Zones’ or beaches
Hot Weather Tip: Switch to fans when you can. Fans can help keep your home cool during hot weather and can save up to 25% on cooling costs! pic.twitter.com/2fkfP4njzk
— SDG&E (@SDGE) June 19, 2017
The agency predicted peak usage Tuesday and Wednesday to exceed 47,000 megawatts, and noted that widespread air-condition use can put strain on the electrical system. Demand on Sunday peaked at just more than 39,000 megawatts. The highest demand ever recorded by the system was 50,270 megawatts, which occurred on July 24, 2006.