California and the rest of the Western Region face heatwaves in summer that put extreme pressure on our energy grid and at-risk older adults. Widespread and long-duration heatwaves can include temperatures ranging from the high 90s to 110+ degrees across the Central Valley, while inland areas of southern California sometimes range from 100 to 120 degrees, even hotter near Death Valley.
These temperatures are dangerous for a large segment of the population. Extreme heat significantly increases the potential for heat related illnesses, particularly for older adults, children under four, people with existing medical conditions and those without access to air conditioning.
To avoid electricity shortages and to keep everyone cool (and with needed power), states like California are asking residents to reduce energy usage to prevent service interruptions. Consumers have delivered considerable conservation levels during the past few years, and every bit of conservation helps.
It’s especially important to limit energy usage from 4 pm to 9 pm on high heat days. These are considered peak hours when many households return home from school and work and turn up air conditioning and use major appliances. Limiting the use of energy and intensive technology during these peak hours is critical. A good strategy is to "over cool" your home overnight and in the morning so that it stays cool all day, but you use less energy during peak hours.
Sign up to receive Flex Alert notifications from your utility provider to help California conserve energy during times of grid stress, and read on below for additional resources, fact sheets as well as tips for conserving energy at home.