Heat Wave Triggers Flex Alert Across California

With a heat wave washing over the state, California residents are urged to voluntarily conserve electricity to ease demand on the statewide power system Tuesday. The California Independent System Operator, which manages the statewide power grid, called a statewide Flex Alert for 2 p.m. until 9 p.m.

The agency predicted peak usage on Tuesday to exceed 48,000 megawatts, which would be the highest demand on the grid so far this year. The highest demand ever recorded by the system was 50,270 megawatts on July 24, 2006.

A Flex Alert is issued when the electrical grid is "under stress," generally from increased power usage due to hot weather.

With heat advisories and excessive heat warnings issued throughout much of the state, Cal-ISO officials encouraged residents to conserve electricity especially during late afternoon hours, when air conditioners are typically used most.

Here are some other steps customers can take to conserve energy:

• Set thermostats at 78 degrees or higher
• Use fans and draw drapes
• Turn off unnecessary lights and appliances
• Use major appliances in the morning or late evening

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