Call for Energy Conservation Extended as Western Heat Wave Intensifies
Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is preparing for potential power outages as a major heatwave affects California, prompting the California Independent System Operator (CAISO) to issue a Flex Alert from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on multiple days. The expected peak electricity demand is forecasted at 50,087 megawatts, nearing a 2006 record. PG&E has mobilized crews and launched energy-saving programs like the Power Saver Rewards Program, rewarding customers for reducing energy use during peak times. Customers are encouraged to prepare for outages and conserve energy.
- PG&E's Power Saver Rewards Program offers $2 per kWh saved during demand peaks, with over 1.5 million participants.
- Proactive measures include activation of Emergency Operations Center for efficient outage responses.
- Forecasted peak electricity demand of 50,087 MW is near the 2006 record, indicating strain on the power grid.
PG&E Preparing to Respond to Possible Heat-Related Power Outages
Grid Operator Asking Californians to Reduce Energy Use from
The ongoing summer heat wave has prompted the state’s grid operator, the
The forecast throughout the Western region calls for continued high temperatures, breaking records in some areas. Conditions are expected to intensify on Labor
Widespread heat events pose unique challenges to the state’s energy grid. In addition to the energy supply concerns driving Flex Alerts, sustained high temperatures have the potential to damage electrical equipment, leading to local outages.
PG&E Programs Encourage Conservation
New this summer, customers can be rewarded for saving energy when the state’s grid operator calls for conservation. PG&E’s Power Saver Rewards Program is a free, voluntary program financially rewarding participants for temporarily reducing electricity use when demand is high. By conserving energy during Power Saver Rewards events coinciding with Flex Alerts, customers earn
Enrolled customers who reduce energy use
Customers can also help reduce the amount of power on the grid during a Flex Alert by enrolling in PG&E’s SmartAC program, which cycles the air conditioner on and off every 15 minutes for up to six hours on event days. This year, new participants will receive
How Customers Can Reduce Energy Today
Here are ways for
Today, before
- Pre-cool home or workspace. Lower the thermostat in the morning. As the temperature rises outside, raise the thermostat, and circulate the pre-cooled air with a fan.
-
Use major appliances, including:
- Washer and dryer
- Dishwasher
- Oven and stove for pre-cooking and preparing meals
- Charge electric vehicles.
- Close shades: Sunlight passing through windows heats the home and makes the air conditioner work harder. Block this heat by keeping blinds or drapes closed on the sunny side of the home.
Today, during the Flex Alert from
-
Set thermostat at 78 degrees or higher, health permitting: Every degree above 78 represents an appropriately
2% savings on cooling costs. - When it’s cooler outside, bring the cool air in: If the outside air is cool during the night or early morning, open windows and doors and use fans to cool your home.
- Avoid using major appliances.
- Turn off all unnecessary lights.
- Avoid charging electric vehicles.
How Customers Can Prepare for Potential Power Outages
- Have a flashlight, radios, and fresh batteries ready. For more information on how to prepare for an emergency, visit PG&E’s Safety Action Center.
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Use cooling centers to stay cool or during a power outage. Check with your city or county, or the Governor’s
Office of Emergency Services list and map of cooling centers statewide. - Operate personal generators safely. Follow the owner’s manual and perform a visual inspection before starting or operating a generator. When setting up a generator, place it on a flat, stable surface to reduce the likelihood of it tipping over. To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, never operate an engine-powered generator in an enclosed space or inside a house or a tent.
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FAQ
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