California utilities warn of grid strain as extreme heat drives up power use
A severe heatwave is expected to push Southern California’s electricity demand higher, prompting utilities to urge customers to reduce consumption and prepare for possible outages.
Next week’s scorching temperatures are set to test Southern California’s power infrastructure, as more households turn on air conditioning. Utilities are requesting voluntary cuts in electricity use, particularly between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m., and have posted a restricted-maintenance notice to keep generators and transmission lines online. The California Independent System Operator says supply should meet demand but is ready to issue Flex Alerts if needed.
Advocacy group The Utility Reform Network criticizes the state for insufficient clean-energy investments, pointing to Governor Gavin Newsom’s veto of AB 1813, a bill that would have expanded community solar and storage. The group also urges greater geothermal development and private funding for renewable projects. Utilities advise residents to charge devices, review emergency plans, and use cooling centers if home air conditioning becomes unreliable.
Why it matters
The heatwave could trigger power shortages, affecting daily life and highlighting gaps in California’s clean-energy strategy.
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