Flex Alert issued for Thursday with high temperatures forecasted

GOLETA, Calif. - The California Independent System Operator (ISO) has issued a statewide flex alert calling for energy conservation as extreme heat and fire danger is expected to take a toll on the state's power grid.

The flex alert will go into effect at 3 p.m. and remain until 10 p.m.

High temperatures are expected to be an issue throughout the evening which the ISO says will likely result in increased energy consumption, mostly from air conditioning use.

Reduced capacity, along with fire activity and heat, has led to a potential shortage of energy supply tomorrow evening.

California Independent System Operator

There are currently no active alerts for rolling outages.

Consumers are still urged to conserve electricity, especially during the late afternoon and early evening when solar energy power decreases.

The ISO released the following tips to reduce the burden on the energy grid.

• Set air conditioning thermostats to 78 degrees, if health permits.
• Defer use of major appliances.
• Turn off unnecessary lights.
• Unplug unused electrical devices.
• Close blinds and drapes.
• Use fans when possible.
• Limit time the refrigerator door is open.

Officials are encouraging people to charge important devices and "pre-cool" homes prior to 3 p.m.

For information about Flex Alerts and to sign up for alerts, visit the ISO’s Flex Alert website.

For updates on grid operations, follow the California ISO on Twitter.