A dangerous heat wave with record breaking temperatures in California and other parts of the Western United States continues to tax the electricity system to the limits of its capacity. According to the California Independent System Operator (CAISO), demand this summer has reached levels not projected until the year 2011.
Heat has caused local outages, fires and casualties. If there is insufficient electricity available to meet all demands in the state, we may see one hour rolling blackouts. If you are subject to a rolling outage, your electricity will be off for approximately an hour. However, during times of extreme heat, other – and more lengthy outages – may also occur do to equipment failure.
Here are some simple steps you can take at home to economize electricity:
· Set your air conditioning thermostat to 78 or higher if safety allows.
· Turn off lights and computers when you’re not using them.
· Use fans to help circulate air throughout the house.
· Keep shades drawn on windows facing the sun.
· Use major appliances like dish and clothes washers after 7 pm.
· Turn your conditioner off and go to a movie or visit an indoor shopping mall.
If you have a health condition that places you at risk in temperature extremes or which requires electricity for medical equipment, you can qualify for advance notification for planned electric outages. Complete and submit the attached application. Click on the link below and follow the instructions.
Please take any measures you can to help reduce peak energy demands
