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Thursday, 05 July 2007 23:47

Heat Wave Continues- Power Managers Concerned

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slide9The heat wave that's hit our area, and most of California, continues today, and power officials are concerned about the electricity supply as the state continued to see triple-digit temperatures. Power managers were concerned that with people heading back to work, the demand could actually surpass the state's power supply. Thursday's demand was about 44,500- around 2500 under the anticipated 47,000. That's only about 5,000 megawatts less than the record set last year during the July heat wave, but this year there is less power available because the dry winter has meant less water to power hydroelectric generators.
slide8 A Flex Your Power alert was called for Thursday and Friday. A Flex Alert is an urgent call for California businesses, governments and residents to voluntarily reduce their electricity use. Here's how you can help: Set thermostat at 78 or higher Use fans to keep cool Turn off unnecessary lights and appliances Use big appliances in off peak power hours -- early in the morning or late at night. Experts also have more advice for staying cool advising Californians to keep the heat from getting into the house in the first place. Close blinds, curtains, especially on south or west-facing windows. Exterior shade is great, things like shade trees, awnings, etc. Don't use appliances if you can help it; dishwashers, washers, dryers all generate heat that puts more strain on your AC. Turn out lights and other appliances when not in use."  The California Independent System Operator says some of the generation plants that tripped off-line earlier this week are expected to be back in operation for peak demand, but officials say they are "old and complex machines, and there are no guarantees."
Read 2492 times Last modified on Friday, 28 August 2009 02:05