Full Notification

Southern California energy providers are expecting a statewide power shortage today July 1, 2013 from 12pm-6pm, primarily due to the forecast for continued temperature extremes in southern California which causes higher than normal electricity use. Southern California Edison and PG&E are asking subscribers in the County of Santa Barbara to reduce their electric consumption. The County of Santa Barbara can do its part by reducing the amount of electricity we are consuming.

County residents can help by shutting off unnecessary lights and electrical appliances and delaying activities requiring electricity-consuming appliances until after 6pm. Other conservation tips from the Public Utility Commission’s include:

• Turn off all unnecessary lights, appliances, computers, monitors and other electronic equipment.
• When possible, close blinds that get direct sun, set air conditioning thermostats to 78 degrees or higher, and use fans to cool the air.
• Avoid using your space heaters, dishwasher, laundry equipment, hair dryers, coffee makers, or other appliances during the peak hours of 12pm-6pm.
• Avoid opening refrigerators or freezers more than necessary.
• Use a gas range or microwave for cooking instead of an electric range or electric oven.

Residents should minimize the use of electric lighting and electricity-consuming equipment as much as possible.

The County of Santa Barbara is part of the California Community and should do its part by reducing electricity consumption when our community needs us.

Thank you for your energy reductions!

OEM will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates if necessary.