IID Issues Conserve Alert as Extreme Heat Expected to Drive Peak Electricity Demand

-Editorial 

The Imperial Irrigation District will issue a Green Conserve Alert beginning at 7 a.m. Thursday, July 23, through 10 p.m. Monday, July 27, as extreme heat and forecasted electricity demand near the utility’s annual peak are expected to place added strain on its electric system and the western power grid.

According to IID, temperatures are forecast to remain above 110 degrees for several days, with highs reaching as much as 118 degrees Saturday. The prolonged heat is expected to increase electricity use as air conditioners run longer across the Imperial and Coachella valleys.

IID said the alert is being issued because of high electrical demand, forecasted peak demand and the ongoing heat wave. The utility is asking customers to voluntarily reduce electricity use between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m., when demand is typically highest.

The utility said increased electricity use during extreme heat can place additional strain on the electric grid and may require it to purchase power on the open market, where prices are often higher during periods of tight regional supply. IID said conserving energy during peak hours helps support reliable electric service and reduces stress on both the local system and the broader western grid.

IID emphasized that a Conserve Alert is not an outage or planned service interruption. Instead, it is a request for customers to voluntarily reduce energy use during peak demand periods while remaining safe and comfortable.

The utility noted that customers enrolled in its voluntary Shift & Save time-of-use rate program may benefit from shifting electricity use to off-peak hours. IID also said eligible EnergyFlex participants can receive incentives for reducing energy use during high-demand events.

“When temperatures rise, every small action matters,” IID Board Chairwoman Karin Eugenio said in a statement. “By responding to Conserve Alerts, customers help reduce pressure on the grid, support reliable service and contribute to the overall strength of our energy system.”

IID recommends customers avoid using major appliances such as washers, dryers, dishwashers, pool pumps and electric vehicle chargers between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. The utility also encourages residents to set thermostats at 78 degrees or higher when home, turn off unnecessary lights, close blinds or drapes to reduce indoor heat, and use fans when appropriate.

“Customers make the difference during high-demand periods,” Eugenio said. “When our communities respond together, those small changes add up and help IID continue delivering power when it is needed most.”

IID encourages customers to stay informed through its social media channels, the IID Connect mobile app and its online bill payment system. Customers may also contact IID’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-303-7756 for information about energy-saving programs and account notifications.