Cal ISO issues Flex Alert due to expected heat

(KION) A statewide Flex Alert has been issued for the holiday weekend by the California Independent System Operator.

Hot weather is expected over the weekend, and the agency issued the alert in an attempt to avoid strain on the power grid.

The Flex Alert goes into effect Saturday and lasts through Monday from 3 to 9 p.m. each day.

During that time, Cal ISO is asking customers to conserve energy by setting thermostats to 78 degrees, avoiding the use of major appliances, turning off unnecessary lights, unplugging unused electronics, closing blinds and drapes and using fans when possible.

By reducing strain on the power grid, the agency said it hopes to avoid power outages. It said that conservation on Aug. 17 and 18 helped to prevent expected outages.