Southern California Power Providers Urge Residents to Conserve Energy, Avoid Using Major Appliances Amid Sweltering Heat Wave to Avoid Rolling Blackouts

California bans the sale of gas-powered vehicles, then urges residents not to plug in their electric vehicles to conserve energy amid sweltering heat waves – or else there will be rolling blackouts.

Southern California is currently baking amid a multi-day October heat wave.

Temperatures soared into the triple digits in Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, and Riverside over the weekend and will continue all week.

Even the coastal cities are sizzling.

On Monday, the power providers urged residents to conserve energy. Southern Californians were asked to avoid using major appliances and urged to set thermostats at 78 degrees or higher.

The Orange County Register reported:

Southern California Edison said it is “closely monitoring the electric system and preparing for the potential impacts of increased electrical demand.”

“We use every available resource to provide reliable service,” according to SCE. “Even so, extreme heat can increase energy use and put extra strain on the electric system, which may increase the likelihood of temporary outages.

“We encourage customers to prepare now for possible outages and periods of increased energy use. Consider charging mobile devices, reviewing emergency plans and making sure any critical equipment has backup power if available. You can also help reduce strain on the grid by conserving energy from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., including limiting use of major appliances during those hours.”

Power providers urged residents to take steps to conserve electricity during the heat wave. The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power recommends setting thermostats to 78 degrees or higher during the hottest parts of the day and avoiding the use of major appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers and vacuum cleaners.

The LADWP also recommends avoiding the use of stoves and ovens, closing curtains and blinds to reduce sunlight, turning off lights and electrical equipment when not in use and unplugging chargers and appliances that continue to draw power.

Oct. 5, 2026 update | Visit Today’s Outlook for real-time grid conditions: https://t.co/XPHahK7l2N https://t.co/OewR6wMO4y

— California ISO (@CaliforniaISO) October 5, 2026