Posted: July 14, 2005 at 11:45 a.m.

(KRON) -- The California Independent System Operator (ISO) has triggered a statewide power warning based on the threat of energy reserves getting too low today.

People and businesses are being encouraged conserve energy by:

• Turning off unneeded lights, computers and appliances.
• Setting thermostats to 78° F when you're home and 85° F or off when you're away.
• Using major appliances after 7 p.m.

By declaring today a "Flex Your Power Now!" day, officials hope to increase public awareness about the benefits of conservation and avoid blackouts or brownouts.

Peak demand is forecast for 4 p.m., when energy use is expected to reach 46,182 megawatts. The previous record was 45,597 megawatts on Sept. 8.

Friday is also predicted to be a record-breaking day with peak demand forecast at 46,573 megawatts, according to the ISO.

PG&E is offering customers a special discount on their bills if they use less energy this summer. If customers can manage to use 20 percent less energy this summer than last summer, they will get 20 percent off their energy bills.

Bay City News contributed to this report.

(Copyright 2005, KRON 4. All rights reserved.)