The California Independent System Operator (CAISO) issued a flex alert for the power grid because of extreme heat, and asked people to save energy to prevent outages. .“During a Flex Alert, consumers are urged to reduce energy use from 4-9 p.m. when the system is most stressed because demand for electricity remains high and there is less solar energy available,” said CAISO in a Tuesday press release. .“The top three conservation actions are to set thermostats to 78 degrees or higher, avoid using electric appliances and charging electric vehicles, and turn off unnecessary lights.” .CAISO said lowering electricity use in California during this time will “ease strain on the system, and prevent more drastic measures, including rotating power outages.” .Temperatures across California are expected to begin rising Wednesday, intensifying over the weekend and extending to early next week. Temperatures are forecasted to hit triple digits and break records. .The release said Restricted Maintenance Operations (RMOs) were issued for the next week from noon to 10 p.m. because of high loads and temperatures. RMOs will require people to avoid scheduled maintenance to ensure all available generation and transmission lines can operate. .CAISO said the peak load for electricity is projected to exceed 48,000 megawatts on Monday, the highest of the year. .“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,” it said. .California’s energy grid has been powered by 100% renewable energy for the first time ever since April. The milestone was achieved with the use of solar power. .Energy demand statewide reached 18,672 megawatts, with 37,172 MW available.
