Statewide Power Flex Alert to Start Today at 5 p.m.

Summary of flex alert: The California Independent System Operator (ISO), which manages electricity flow across the state, has issued a statewide flex alert today (Thursday, June 17) starting at 5 p.m. because of extreme heat in California and the Southwest. The flex alert will be in effect until 10 p.m.

Reason for flex alert: Keep the state energy grid from becoming overloaded and avert power outages.

How does this affect me? The state ISO is urging all residents to conserve power.  

What do I need to do? Turn off lights, computers and other electrical devices before leaving workspaces. Campus employees are also urged to conserve energy after arriving at home. In addition, California ISO also urges residents to:

• Before 5 p.m., “pre-cool” buildings by setting air-conditioning thermostats lower than usual. Charge electronic devices and electric vehicles. Run dishwashers, washers and dryers and other major appliances before 5 p.m.
• After 5 p.m., set thermostat to 78⁰ or higher.
• Cool with fans and draw drapes after 5 p.m.
• Turn off unnecessary lights and defer use of appliances.

Learn more at http://www.flexalert.org