FOLSOM, Calif. – The California Independent System Operator (ISO) has issued an Energy Emergency Alert (EEA) 2, effective today from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The emergency alert has been declared to help the grid secure more supplies and urge market participants to lower demand on the system. The state and much of the West is enduring an historically long and record-breaking heat wave, straining the grid from high electricity use.
A Flex Alert is also in effect again for today, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. to help alleviate grid stress and avoid rotating power outages.
When the Flex Alert conservation period is in effect, consumers are urged to:
- Set their thermostat to 78 degrees
- Avoid using the oven, dishwasher, washer and dryer
- Turn off unnecessary lights
To be as comfortable as possible during the Flex Alert hours, consumers are also encouraged to manage electricity use by taking these steps before 4 p.m. today:
- Pre-cool your home by lowering the thermostat as low as 72 degrees
- Use major appliances, like dishwashers, washers and dryers, and ovens
- Adjust blinds and drapes to cover windows
To learn more about EEA designations, view the Emergency Notifications fact sheet.
For more information on grid conditions, view today’s video of Elliot Mainzer, the CEO of the ISO.
For the most up-to-date information on emergencies, follow grid conditions in real time on ISO’s Today’s Outlook, download the free ISO Today mobile app, and follow us on Twitter at @California_ISO.
Tips before a Flex Alert:
- Pre-cool home by setting the thermostat to as low as 72 degrees
- Use major appliances:
- Washer and dryer
- Dishwasher
- Oven and stove for pre-cooking and preparing meals
- Adjust blinds and drapes to cover windows
Tips during a Flex Alert from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.:
- Set thermostat to 78 degrees or higher, if health permits
- Avoid using major appliances
- Turn off all unnecessary lights
A Flex Alert is issued by the ISO when the electricity grid is under stress because of generation or transmission outages, or from persistent hot temperatures.
Follow developing grid conditions at the ISO’s News webpage, under the System Conditions Bulletin, or follow us on Twitter at @California_ISO.
Click here to learn more about System Alerts, Warnings and Emergencies. Follow grid conditions in real time at ISO’s Today’s Outlook, or download the free ISO Today mobile app.
