Imperial, California - Imperial Irrigation District set a new record for peak electricity demand in 2018 yesterday and expects usage to be even higher today.

Energy demand on the IID system reached 1,052 megawatts* between 4-5 p.m. on Monday, July 23, and power planners are anticipating usage in excess of 1,069 MW today and 1,064 MW on Wednesday.

Customer demands associated with 118-120 degree temperatures contributed to the new peak.

“IID has adequate power supplies to meet its demand, but asks customers to conserve energy to ease strain on the electric grid and maintain reliability of the system,” said Henry Martinez, manager of IID’s Energy Department.

Like much of the state and southwest, the Imperial and Coachella Valleys are in the midst of an intense summer heat wave, brought on by a high-pressure system presiding over the Four Corners region.

During the summer, IID advises customers to conserve energy by setting thermostats at 78 degrees or higher, turning off lights and fans when leaving a room and giving major appliances a break during the peak energy hours of 4-8 p.m.

Additional tips for home energy conservation:

• Block the sun from overheating your home. Inside, use shades, blinds and drapes. Outside, use awnings, trees and shrubs.
• Plug electronics into a power strip; turn the strip off when not in use.
• Use the power management settings on computers and monitors.
• Replace your five most-used light fixtures and/or bulbs with ENERGY STAR® products.
• Change or clean your air conditioner’s filter at least once a month to keep your system running at peak performance.

Customers are invited to download the IID Customer Connect mobile application or visit www.iid.com/summer for additional tips and information on our energy efficiency programs.

*One megawatt is enough energy to power approximately 850 homes.