LADWP Issues Energy Conservation Alert

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — An energy conservation alert was issued Friday as temperatures are expected to reach 100 degrees and beyond in the San Fernando Valley.

Energy demand on Thursday was the highest so far this year – 5,679 megawatts – and similar consumption is expected Friday, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power officials said.

"During times of extreme heat, we strongly encourage customers to conserve electricity as long as it does not jeopardize their own health or the health of their pets," LADWP General Manager Marcie Edwards said.

Energy use is typically highest between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., when more people are operating their air conditioners and using other large appliances.

To help reduce energy use, LADWP recommend adjusting thermostats to 78 degrees; limit the use of large appliances, such as washing machines, dishwashers and vacuum cleaners, to evening hours; closing drapes, shades or blinds; ventilating homes by opening windows and doors; turning off lights and equipment that are not in use and unplugging "energy vampires" like cell phone chargers, DVD players, microwaves and other appliances that use energy even when turned off or in sleep mode.

For those who are home during the day, cooling centers are available at libraries, senior centers and other facilities.