Residents in Los Angeles and nearby areas have been asked to conserve power as a prolonged heat wave pushes demand closer to the limits.

Here's what to know

The California Independent System Operator (Cal-ISO), which runs the state grid, issued a "Restricted Maintenance Operations" notice in effect from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. October 5 and 6. MyNewsLA reported that suppliers were urged not to take actions that could affect generator or transmission availability.

Cal-ISO said, "We are not forecasting any supply shortfalls at this time, but wanted to prepare consumers in the event that we need to call a Flex Alert. We will continue to monitor forecasted demand and supply conditions and will provide additional updates as necessary." A Flex Alert is a voluntary request for conservation when electricity demand could exceed available supply. 

Southern California Edison, which serves much of the region, said it is "closely monitoring the electric system and preparing for the potential impacts of increased electrical demand." The utility said very high temperatures can increase strain on the system and raise the odds of temporary outages.

For homeowners, going solar is one of the best ways to save money on home energy. Palmetto is currently running an exclusive offer for Southern California residents that allows customers to save an average of 40% on their electric bills with $0 down.

More background

The Restricted Maintenance Operations notice is intended to keep as much equipment available as possible during the hottest hours. According to MyNewsLA, Cal-ISO could escalate beyond a Flex Alert if conditions deteriorate. In the most serious shortage scenarios, those emergency steps can lead to rolling blackouts.

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) has asked residents to keep thermostats at 78 degrees or higher during the hottest parts of the day and avoid heavy appliance use, including washing machines, dishwashers, vacuum cleaners, stoves, and ovens.

LADWP also advised residents to close curtains and blinds, turn off lights and other electrical devices when they are not being used, and unplug chargers and appliances that continue drawing power to ease stress on the grid.

What can be done?

Because demand is often highest in the early evening, Southern California Edison (SCE) asked customers to conserve electricity from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. The utility also urged residents to charge mobile devices in advance, review emergency plans, and, when possible, arrange backup power for essential equipment.

SCE said extreme heat can push energy use high enough to make temporary outages more likely. Even a short power loss can be a serious issue for households that depend on medical or other critical equipment.

With Palmetto's help, the average Southern California resident can save 40% on their electric bills, which can add up to thousands of dollars per year. That makes the company's special offer especially notable as hotter weather pushes air-conditioning use and increases pressure on monthly utility costs.

Where can I learn more?

Here are more stories on how extreme heat is driving up power demand and testing grid reliability in California and other parts of the country.

• Across California, battery storage helped the grid stay stable during a punishing heat wave.

• In California, peak-hour power use can add hundreds to summer cooling bills.

• Across the United States, heat waves are straining grids and pushing electricity prices higher.

• As triple-digit heat returned, PG&E said a free bill-saving program could reduce costs.

• The North American Electric Reliability Corporation warned of higher summer outage risks in some states.

Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips, smart advice, and a chance to earn $5,000 toward home upgrades. To see more stories like this one, change your Google preferences here.