State issues energy flex alert

With a heat wave gripping parts of the region and power demand on the rise, the manager of the state’s energy grid has issued a “flex alert,” asking residents to conserve electricity between 2 and 9 p.m. to reduce strain on the system.

The alert went into effect Tuesday and was to remain in effect today, according to the California Independent System Operator.

“Consumers are urged to reduce their energy use during the late afternoon when air conditioners drive consumption to the highest point of the day,” states the alert.

According to Cal-ISO, a flex alert is issued when the state’s power grid is under stress due to elevated demand or transmission system outages. The alerts call for voluntary conservation so the state will not have to dip into energy reserves.

Cal-ISO predicted peak energy demand for the day to hit 44,700 megawatts around 6 p.m.

The agency offered a series of tips for conserving energy:

• Set thermostats at 78 degrees or higher and turn air conditioners off when away.

• Switch off lights when leaving a room.

• Avoid using appliances during peak hours, particularly from 4 to 6 p.m.

• Reset pool pumps to run during off-peak hours.

• Turn off computer monitors at work while away from the desk, and switch off lights and coffee makers.