California grid warns heat wave will stoke power demand

[August 14, 2023]  (Reuters) - California's Independent System Operator (ISO) warned of high temperatures and increased electricity usage during the coming week as the grid operator prepares for tight conditions works to ensure adequate supply.

High tension power lines with winter storm clouds behind them are seen in Sacramento County following multiple winter storms in Sacramento, California, U.S. January 9, 2023. REUTERS/Fred Greaves

In a notice released on Saturday, ISO said it is closely monitoring the power grid as widespread heat waves can cause supply shortages, with resources stretched thin across multiple Western states.

ISO said energy supplies are sufficient to meet demand. But if weather or grid conditions worsen, it may issue emergency notifications to secure additional resources, and prepare for potential shortages and conservation.

The operator could also issue a Flex Alert, urging consumers to reduce power use during the late afternoon and evening on some days.

Current demand stood at 35,472 megawatts as of Sunday evening in California, compared with an available capacity of 43,873 MW, the ISO website showed.

In California, the northern interior could experience temperatures of 98-108 (37-42°C) degrees Fahrenheit from Monday to Wednesday, while the desert Southwest may see highs of 105-118°F from Tuesday to Friday — 5-15 degrees hotter than usual for mid-August, ISO said.

(Reporting by Anushree Mukherjee and Swati Verma in Bengaluru. Editing by Gerry Doyle)

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