The California Independent System Operator (CAISO) is calling on people to conserve energy on Monday, July 12. The agency tweeted Sunday that a Flex Alert will be effect statewide from 4 - 9 p.m.
The callout comes as the state's grid operator expects to see increased power demand on Monday. On Twitter, CAISO said some Oregon transmission lines were knocked out by the Bootleg Fire and are still not in service. It has reduced the power supply imported into California and other states.
With the lines unreliable and continued high temperatures, CAISO is calling on people to conserve energy to help stabilize the electric grid.
If demand outpaces supply, CAISO could call for rotating temporary power outages to extend the power supply.
Customers are encouraged to do the following during the Flex Alert:
- Set thermostats to 78 degrees or higher, if your health permits
- Avoid using major appliances, like dishwashers and clothes washers and dryers
- Turn off all unnecessary lights
To get prepared before the Flex Alert, people are encouraged to pre-cool their home, use major appliances before the alert goes into effect, close their window coverings, and charge their electronic devices.