Flex alert issued after high temperatures tax Valley power grid

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Another day of triple digit heat means another day of too many people pulling from the power grid to keep cool.

"It is really hot-- really really hot," said Susanne Thomas, Clovis.

As a precaution the California Independent System Operator Corporation issued a flex alert Wednesday through Thursday night. Urging people to use less electricity.

"They're hoping that customers will conserve enough where we won't have any issues," said Denny Boyles, Pacific Gas and Electric Company.

Issues like power outages and PG&E said the Central Valley has not run into that problem yet. But to keep it from happening, officials said now is the time to do things that would put less stress on the state's grid.

"Maybe don't start your dishwasher or washing machine until later in the evening. Have the ability to turn the pool pump off or wait until 9 p.m. and closing blind will reduce amount energy to cool your house," said Boyles.

Kourosh Kolahi heard about the flex alert on his way home from work. And the first thing he did when he got inside and adjusted his thermostat to the suggested setting of 78 degrees.

"We'll just keep it a little hotter inside the house. I don't know how the grid works so I'll take their recommendations."

Susanne Thomas said she was going to do the same. She has solar panels but said if for reason conserving is not enough and the grid crashes, she's prepared.

"I've got water, I've got food, I've got everything I need just in case."

The flex alert is voluntary but those who choose to participate and conserve are asked to do so from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.