Sacramento, CA — As the temperatures heat up the number of power outages could also rise.
State energy officials say wildfires, the drought and high temperatures could strain Southern California’s power supply this summer. Officials at the state’s Independent System Operator reports that the power grid is stable, but warns that fire and weather conditions could trigger outages.
Energy Officials say hot smoke and flames from wildfires can damage power lines, and using air conditioners during high temperatures can drain electrical supplies. Also, limiting the capacity of the region’s power supply has been the closure of the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station. Energy Officials report the drought has already reduced the amount of hydroelectricity, In addition nearly 4,000 megawatts of solar power has been added over the last 18 months. Flex Alerts, which call for voluntary power conservation measures at peak usage times are expected to be issued during the summer.