ENCINITAS, CA – For a second day, the California Independent System Operator issued an Energy Emergency Alert 2 Wednesday amid the Golden State’s record heat wave.
The alert, which is in effect from 4-9 p.m., means that the state’s power grid manager has requested emergency supplies from all resources to meet the expected increased demand for electricity. Cal ISO had already extended a Flex Alert for the eighth day in a row to encourage residents in Encinitas and across the state to conserve power during the same hours to avoid rolling blackouts.
Californians are asked to set thermostats to 78 degrees or higher; avoid the use of large appliances; turn off unnecessary lights; and avoid charging electric vehicles. Residents are advised to pre-cool their homes as much as possible and close blinds and drapes to keep the interior cool.
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The voluntary conservation measures have worked so far, as power remained on Tuesday despite increased demand for electricity.
“Consumer conservation played a big role in protecting electric grid reliability,” Cal ISO officials said on Twitter after Energy Emergency Alert 3 ended at 8 p.m. Tuesday.
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Temperatures have soared above 100 degrees every day since last Wednesday in Southern California.
An excessive heat warning in effect over the Labor Day weekend has been extended until 8 p.m. Friday for San Diego County, according to the National Weather Service. Hot and dangerous conditions are expected in the region.
City News Service contributed to this report.
