California ISO issues expanded flex alert as extreme heat persists into ninth day
CENTRAL COAST, Calif. – The California Independent System Operator (ISO) issued another heat alert with extended hours as southern California and the rest of the state entered into its ninth consecutive day of record-setting heat.
“So from 3 to 10 today is when our flex alert is going to be in effect. And basically, the state is telling us that there is a shortage of resources to meet demand", said PG&E Communications Representative Carina Corral.
The flex alert issued for Thursday lasts from 3 p.m. until 10 p.m. – two hours longer than previous alerts that lasted from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m.
“Well, we conserve power to keep us safe, make sure we maintain the power that we do need when we do need it. So obviously, that's a win-win for everybody", said Kelly Madden from San Luis Obispo.
A flex alert was initially issued on Wednesday, Aug. 31, and has been extended every day since as the heat and people's desire to stay cool strains the power grid.
During a flex alert, residents are asked to lower electricity use by setting thermostats to 78 degrees or higher, health permitting, avoid using major appliances, and turn off all unnecessary lights. To minimize discomfort and help with grid stability, Californians are also encouraged to pre-cool their homes and use major appliances before 4 p.m. when solar energy is typically abundant.
“Folks can just keep conserving and hang in there for a little bit longer. They've done a great job. We've been able to avoid rotating outages thus far, which is great, and that's all because of conservation efforts", said Corral.
California ISO asked both residents and major energy companies like PG&E to extend its conservation hours from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. due to the ongoing heatwave.
Santa Maria city staff said they have also taken measures to conserve power throughout the heatwave.
They have asked for all thermostats to be placed at 78 degrees and the heater was turned off for the Paul Nelson community pool in Santa Maria.
“People in Santa Maria and frankly, all over the county and the Central Coast, some of whom are reliant on electrical devices for their health. And by pitching in not only the city but other businesses and individuals can make a difference", said Santa Maria City Official Mark van de Kamp.
For more on steps to conserve power through this heatwave tune in for our live show at 4, 5, and 6 p.m.
