Electric Grid Operator Issues Statewide Power Flex Alerts Starting on Wednesday, Aug. 31

Summary of Flex Alert: The California Independent System Operator (ISO), which manages the flow of electricity across the state, has issued a statewide Flex Alert calling for voluntary energy conservation starting on Wednesday, Aug. 31 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. because of extremely high temperatures and tight power supplies. Flex Alerts will be in effect daily until Tuesday, Sept. 6.

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

How does this affect me? California ISO is urging all campus building users and 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.

Before a Flex Alert, building users encouraged to:

• Turn off or dim lights when feasible.
• Turn off unnecessary lights and equipment.
• Close blinds and window coverings.
•   Charge electric vehicles.
• Run appliances and industrial processes needed for that day before a scheduled event.
• Pre-cool spaces before the start of an event.

Tips for the Flex Alert from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.:

• Set thermostat to 78 degrees or higher if health permits.
• Do not run laundry, vehicle charging, printing and water pumping,
• Turn off unused lights, appliances and equipment.
• Keep window coverings closed.

For more information, visit the ISO websites on Flex Alerts: www.caiso.com and www.flexalert.org.