Rolling blackouts are expected to be imposed by the California Independent System Operator (ISO) that manages the electric grid throughout California and the western United States.
These are unplanned outages where all organizations must follow the grid management orders directed by ISO.
To address this issue, ISO issued a statewide Flex Alert, a call for voluntary electricity conservation, that will extend through Wednesday.
The Flex Alerts are in effect from 3 PM to 10 PM each day.
These rolling blackouts are directly associated with the supply-and-demand of electricity during the heat wave. These outages are not Public Safety Power Shutoffs, which are called during specific high fire-threat conditions, and they are not related to any issues with PG&E’s equipment or its ability to deliver energy locally.
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Follow grid conditions in real time:
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Click here to read the full press release:
Additional Information:
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Energy Conservation Tips
Before 3 PM or after 10 PM:
- “Pre-cool” your home: Cool homes and use air conditioners more during morning hours to "pre-cool" your home.
- Clean clothes and dishes: Use large energy-consuming appliances like washing machines and dishwashers earlier in the day or late at night after 10:00 pm.
- Charge electronics: Charge all electric vehicles, mobile devices and laptops needed for the day in the morning.
- Set pool pumps: Have your pool pump set to run in the early morning or late at night.
During 3 PM to 10 PM:
- Raise the thermostat: Set the thermostat to 78 degrees when at home during the rest of the day, health permitting. Turn it up to 85 degrees or turn it off when not at home.
- Use a ceiling fan: Turn on a ceiling fan when needing to use the air conditioner, which will allow the thermostat to be raised about 4 degrees to save on cooling costs with no reduction in comfort. Turn off fans and lights when you leave the room.
- Cover windows: Use shade coverings and awnings so the air conditioner won’t have to work as hard to cool the home.
- Avoid using the oven: Instead, cook on the stove, use a microwave or grill outside.
- Limit the opening of refrigerators, which are major users of electricity in most homes. The average refrigerator is opened 33 times a day.
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Safety Tips
- Plan ahead: Check the weather forecast to prepare for hot days.
- Keep an emergency contact list: Keep a list of emergency phone numbers.
- Have a buddy system: Check in on elderly or people with access and function needs.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, even when you are not thirsty.
- Stay cool: Take a cool shower or bath and wear lightweight, loose, light-colored clothing.
- Stay safe: Stay out of direct sunlight and avoid alcoholic or caffeinated beverages.
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