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.
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.
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.
Related information
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