LOS ANGELES (CNS) - Southland power providers will be monitoring the electrical grid Monday as a prolonged heat wave drives up demand, with customers being urged to conserve energy to help reduce the strain on the system.

The California Independent System Operator, or Cal-ISO, which manages the state's power grid, has issued a "Restricted Maintenance Operations" notice from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, urging suppliers "to avoid taking actions which may jeopardize generator and/or transmission availability."

"We are not forecasting any supply shortfalls at this time, but wanted to prepare consumers in the event that we need to call a Flex Alert," the agency said Friday. "We will continue to monitor forecasted demand and supply conditions and will provide additional updates as necessary."

A Flex Alert is issued when Cal-ISO believes power demand may exceed supply and calls for voluntary conservation by residents. If conditions worsen, additional emergency alerts could be issued, potentially leading to rolling blackouts in the most critical power-shortage situations.

Southern California Edison said it is "closely monitoring the electric system and preparing for the potential impacts of increased electrical demand."

"We use every available resource to provide reliable service," according to SCE. "Even so, extreme heat can increase energy use and put extra strain on the electric system, which may increase the likelihood of temporary outages.

"We encourage customers to prepare now for possible outages and periods of increased energy use. Consider charging mobile devices, reviewing emergency plans and making sure any critical equipment has backup power if available. You can also help reduce strain on the grid by conserving energy from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., including limiting use of major appliances during those hours."

Power providers urged residents to take steps to conserve electricity during the heat wave. The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power recommends setting thermostats to 78 degrees or higher during the hottest parts of the day and avoiding the use of major appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers and vacuum cleaners.

The LADWP also recommends avoiding the use of stoves and ovens, closing curtains and blinds to reduce sunlight, turning off lights and electrical equipment when not in use and unplugging chargers and appliances that continue to draw power.

Residents can also use cooling centers instead of relying on home air conditioning. A list of cooling centers in Los Angeles is available at emergency.lacity.gov/heat.

Gary and Shannon

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