An independent US government agency that regulates the transmission of electricity, natural gas, and oil in the state of California, has cautioned residents to voluntarily reduce electricity consumption, or else face power cuts. The California Independent System Operator’s (CAISO) announcement came as extreme heat is expected to cause a surge in electricity consumption in the state of California and the rest of the western United States.
California is currently experiencing its hottest week this year, with temperatures expected to increase by 3°C-6°C. The extreme weather condition was predicted to start on Wednesday, August 31 lasting through Labor Day weekend to next Tuesday.
Extreme heat is expected to put pressure on California’s energy grid, and residents are being urged to voluntarily cut out on their electricity consumption.
The agency has recommended electricity conservation strategies to adopt during peak hours between 4-9 pm. These include avoiding charging electric vehicles or using large appliances, switching off unnecessary lights, and setting air-conditioning systems on low.
The agency has warned residents to voluntarily reduce energy consumption or face rotating power outages. “If weather or grid conditions worsen, the ISO may issue a series of emergency notifications to access additional resources and prepare market participants and the public for potential energy shortages and the need to conserve”, cautioned the agency.
