Southern California is currently facing a scorching heat wave, leading to soaring temperatures and increased strain on the state’s power grid. With this strain comes the worry of potential brownouts or blackouts, a concern that has many residents wondering if Flex Alerts are imminent.
Southern California Edison (SCE) spokesperson Reggie Kumar explains that multiple consecutive days of extreme heat, coupled with unusually warm nighttime temperatures, can severely impact the power grid. This is due to electric equipment struggling to adequately cool down between periods of heavy energy use.
To mitigate the stress on the power grid and prevent potential outages, SCE urges residents to conserve energy during peak demand hours, specifically between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. Fortunately, SCE reports that their system is currently performing well, attributing this to equipment replacements, upgrades, and grid hardening efforts implemented over the past several years.
Despite the current stability, SCE is proactively recommending residents take steps to minimize their energy consumption during the heat wave. These recommendations include:
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Avoid charging electric vehicles.
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Refrain from using major appliances like washing machines and dryers.
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Charge phones and laptops during off-peak hours.
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Set thermostats to 78 degrees Fahrenheit when at home and 85 degrees when away.
By following these recommendations, residents can contribute to reducing the burden on the power grid and help ensure a reliable energy supply throughout the heat wave. Stay informed about the latest updates and advisories from your local utility provider for any further instructions or potential Flex Alerts.
