Powering Through the Peak: How IID Met Summer’s Highest Energy Demand So Far
Share your love
-Editorial
As extreme summer heat pushed energy use across the Imperial and Coachella Valleys, Imperial Irrigation District’s electric system reached a summer peak of 1,126 megawatts on July 24, the highest demand recorded so far this season.
While customers may only see the number on a chart, meeting summer peak demand requires planning, coordination, and real-time response across IID’s electric system.
Behind the scenes, IID teams across generation, transmission, distribution, system operations, energy procurement, customer programs, and field crews work together to monitor demand, dispatch resources, maintain reliability, and respond quickly when extreme heat places added strain on the system.
During periods of extreme heat, air conditioners run longer and harder across the region, sharply increasing electricity demand. IID prepares for these conditions by monitoring weather forecasts and system conditions, ensuring adequate power resources are available, preparing field crews, and using tools such as Conserve Alerts, Shift & Save, and EnergyFlex to encourage customers to reduce or shift energy use during peak hours.
Customers also play an important role. Simple steps, especially between 4 and 9 p.m., can help reduce demand when the electric grid is under the most pressure. Customers are encouraged to avoid using major appliances during peak hours, set thermostats at 78 degrees or higher when home, close blinds or drapes, use fans when possible, and charge electric vehicles after 9 p.m.
“Keeping the power flowing on the hottest days of the year doesn’t happen by accident—it takes preparation, teamwork and constant attention to the system,” said IID Chairwoman Karin Eugenio. “Long before demand reaches its peak, IID employees are planning, securing power resources, maintaining equipment and preparing to respond. And when customers conserve during those critical peak hours, they become an important part of that effort.”
IID encourages customers to stay informed by following IID on social media, signing up for alerts, and visiting www.iid.com/ConserveAlert for energy-saving tips and updates.
