California’s record-breaking persistent heat wave continues to put strain on both the State’s electric system and the SDG&E regional grid. A statewide Flex Alert, a call for voluntary electricity conservation, will be in effect from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. today and rotating power outages are still possible if system conditions don’t improve. In addition, the Governor has requested assistance from all UC campuses to take actions to reduce demand and increase power generation, if possible.
Our main campus is powered via a large micro-grid that extends from the east campus to Scripps Institution of Oceanography and is not subject to SDG&E rolling blackouts. However, a power outage can occur at any time and we want to reassure the campus community that UC San Diego is prepared for such an event. Our cogeneration plants are our main resource and while they are capable of supporting our essential loads, our combined plant capacity cannot support the full campus load. Conservation efforts during these times can prevent more targeted measures, such as the need to internally shed any non-essential loads.
Therefore, we urge the campus community, while on campus and at home, to take the following recommended actions:
- Set air conditioning thermostats to 78 degrees, if health permits
- Defer use of major appliances
- Turn off unnecessary lights
- Unplug unused electrical devices
- Close blinds and drapes
- Use fans when possible
- Limit time the refrigerator door is open
We greatly appreciate your patience and support.
