Blackouts Not Expected in California This Summer

Blackouts Not Expected in California This Summer

The Orange County Register, Calif. - April 23, 2003

It'll be close, but California should make it through the summer without having to endure rolling blackouts, state energy officials said Thursday.

The California Independent System Operator, which controls the power grid for most of the state, predicts that there will be adequate supplies of electricity to meet the state's needs on even the hottest days this year.

But officials also called on Californians to cut their consumption of electricity by taking simple steps such as turning off unneeded lights, saying that conservation will give the state necessary breathing room when power supplies get tight on hot days.

"The good news is that the state of the California energy situation is vastly improved over what it was during the energy crisis (of 2000-2001)," said Cal-ISO Chairman Michael Kahn at an Earth Day press conference. "The additional good news is that we see signs ourselves of the economy improving, and with the economy improving, there is increased demand. We need you to be able to pitch in and help conserve as you have in the past.

If we have very hot weather, we're going to need help. The good energy habits that Californians developed during the energy crisis, we hope they continue."

Terry Winter, Cal-ISO's president and CEO, said that in August, the state will have surplus energy of just 1,600 megawatts, while demand is expected to peak at about 44,000 megawatts. If just three large power plants go offline unexpectedly, Cal-ISO dispatchers could be plunged into a tense struggle to avert blackouts, he said.

If each of California's 35 million residents were to turn off just one 100-watt light bulb, demand would be reduced by 3,500 megawatts, tripling the state's expected surplus of power on hot days, Winter said.

Mariann Long of Anaheim Public Utilities talked about some of the steps her agency has taken to promote conservation, such as planting 25,000 shade trees at residential homes. When these trees reach maturity, they are expected to help save enough power to supply 270 homes, she said.

A Southern California Edison spokeswoman encouraged ratepayers to take advantage of free home energy audits offered by the utility company. Also, both residential and business customers are invited to participate in a summer program offering a bill credit from June through September for allowing Edison to turn off their air conditioners when necessary. Details are available at www.sce.com or by calling 800-736-4777.

CONSERVATION TIPS: If possible, avoid use of large electrical appliances during peak demand hours of 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Set thermostat to 78 degrees when home, 85 degrees when away.

Close drapes and blinds to shade room from direct sunlight.

Use ceiling and room fans.

Run pool pump during early morning or late evening hours.

Operate dishwasher only when full, turning off "dry cycle."

Do laundry efficiently, drying clothes on a line when possible.

Source: California Independent System Operator

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