LADWP urges customers to conserve power during heat wave

With a heat wave continuing to drive up temperatures, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power urged customers Friday to conserve energy to prevent stress on the power grid.

“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,” DWP General Manager Marcie Edwards said.

On Thursday, when the heat wave kicked in, DWP energy demand reached its highest level this year, 5,679 megawatts. DWP officials said they expect similar demand today.

The utility’s all-time record for power demand is 6,396 megawatts, set on Sept. 16, 2014.

DWP officials said conserving energy is especially critical between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., when use is traditionally the highest.

Customers were urged to conserve by taking steps such as:

— setting thermostats to 78 degrees or higher;

— limiting the use of major appliances during peak hours;

— closing drapes and blinds to reduce heat;

— turn off lights and other equipment when not in use; and

— unplug items like cell phone chargers, DVD players and microwave ovens that can use energy even when turned off.

—Staff and wire reports