Rotating outages

Outages are preventable, if we all conserve

No rotating block outages are planned.

What are rotating outages?

Heatwaves may strain the grid. To reduce the impact, CAISO may enact rotating outages.

CAISO decides when outages are needed

The California Independent System Operator (CAISO) decides when rotating outages are necessary to reduce demand on the power grid.

You'll be notified

You may be notified by text, email and/or phone before PG&E enacts a rotating outage in your area. Outages typically last 1-2 hours.

Outage times are only estimates

Remember—all outage start times are estimates. They're meant as guidelines, not definitive schedules.

Shutoff times may be postponed or cancelled

When demand for electricity is higher than supply, such as during a heat wave, Californians might be asked to use less energy. If enough people conserve electricity at once, rotating outages can be cancelled or postponed by an hour or more.

You may get Flex Alerts

The purpose of a Flex Alert is to encourage customers to conserve as much energy as they can during a designated period. The CAISO typically calls a Flex Alert when statewide forecasts are trending higher than average.

We can help prevent rotating outages

Find simple ways to help ease the burden on the power grid. Learn how to prepare for Flex Alerts.

Rotating outages: what to expect

 

If the CAISO determines rotating outages are necessary, you can find out if and when you’ll be affected. Look up any address in our service area in the Outage Center.


Visit the Outage Center

 

important notice icon Note: Shutoff times can be postponed or cancelled.

 

When demand for electricity is higher than supply, such as during a heat wave, Californians might be asked to use less energy. If enough people conserve electricity at once, rotating outages can be cancelled or postponed by an hour or more.

Common questions about rotating outages

Related information

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