With high temperatures in the forecast and high demand for electricity predicted,  the California Independent System Operator (ISO) issued a statewide Flex Alert, a call for voluntary  electricity conservation, for  September 8-9 to help stabilize the state’s electric grid and deal with uncertainty created by the extraordinary conditions.

Energy reduction during a Flex Alert can prevent further emergency measures, including rotating power outages. Between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m., the ISO is urging consumers to:

• Set air conditioning thermostats to 78 degrees or higher, if health permits.
• Defer use of major appliances.
• Turn off unnecessary lights.
• Unplug unused electrical devices.
• Close blinds and drapes.
• Use fans when possible.
• Limit time the refrigerator door is open.

Consumers can also take steps to prepare for the Flex Alert by doing the following before 4 p.m.:

• “Pre-cool” their homes, or lower air conditioning thermostats.
• Charge electric vehicles.
• Charge mobile devices and laptops.
• Run dishwashers, washing machines and other major appliances.
• Set pool pumps to run in the early morning or late at night.

Read the California ISO news release.