Friday, August 8, 2025

Pasadena Grid Holding Steady Amid Heat Wave; No Outages or Flex Alerts in Effect

Despite high temperatures across Southern California, Pasadena’s electrical grid remains stable with no outages, Flex Alerts, or Public Safety Power Shutoffs in effect, according to early morning Friday reports from Pasadena Water and Power and Southern California Edison.

The California Independent System Operator (CAISO) confirmed normal statewide grid operations Friday morning, citing a surplus of 1,451 megawatts above one-day-in-ten-years planning targets and robust battery storage capacity totaling 15,763 MW. The agency’s 2025 Summer Assessment indicates sufficient resources to meet demand under current conditions, with capacity margins exceeding demand and reserve requirements for the third consecutive year.

Local Utility Status 

Pasadena Water and Power reported zero active outages and no planned maintenance affecting customer service. The distribution system is operating normally. Southern California Edison noted minimal disruptions, with only 814 customers affected across Los Angeles County—representing 0.07% of its customer base. No shutoffs are under consideration for Pasadena or Altadena. Ventura County reported 1,966 customers affected.

Heat Wave Conditions 

The National Weather Service has issued heat advisories for much of the region, with Pasadena expected to reach a high of 95°F—4 to 8 degrees above normal. Inland valleys may see temperatures between 95°F and 106°F, while desert regions face extreme heat warnings with highs up to 118°F. Light southwest winds of 5–10 mph are expected, with no strong gusts forecast. Fire weather risk is moderate due to heat and low humidity, but no Red Flag Warnings are active.

Air quality remains a concern. The South Coast Air Quality Management District issued an ozone advisory, warning of “Unhealthy” levels in multiple locations on Wednesday due to heat and wildfire smoke. Elevated ozone levels are expected to persist through Saturday.

No Flex Alerts Issued 

CAISO has not called for energy conservation measures today, but residents are encouraged to reduce electricity use during peak hours (4–9 p.m.) to support grid reliability. Suggested actions include setting thermostats to 78°F, delaying appliance use, and avoiding electric vehicle charging during peak periods. Residents may also pre-cool their homes by lowering thermostats to 75–76°F in the morning, closing window coverings, and using fans to enhance cooling efficiency.

Fire Risk and Grid Reliability 

While Pasadena faces no immediate kown wildfire threats, three large fires are burning elsewhere in Southern California. Above normal fire potential is expected through September. Vegetation remains critically dry despite battery and storage infrastructure improvements.

California’s grid resilience is attributed to its clean energy transition. Solar now accounts for 22% of in-state electricity consumption, up from 13.8% in January 2021, and the state operates on 100% clean electricity for an average of seven hours daily. Battery storage has increased 2,300 MW since September 2024, helping balance demand during peak periods.

Health and Safety Recommendations 

Residents are urged to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activity during peak heat, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Never leave children or pets in vehicles. Cooling centers are open at the Jackie Robinson Community Center and Pasadena Public Libraries.

California’s grid performance during this heat wave marks a significant improvement over previous years, when similar conditions triggered widespread alerts and outages. The state’s 1,944% increase in battery storage since 2019 has played a key role in maintaining reliable service amid extreme weather. Unlike previous heat waves that triggered multiple Flex Alerts and emergency measures, today’s conditions are being managed through advanced energy storage and improved grid flexibility.

Emergency Contacts and Resources

• Pasadena Power Emergencies: (626) 744-4673
• PWP Customer Service: (626) 744-4005
• SCE Customer Service: (800) 655-4555
• CAISO Grid Status: caiso.com/todays-outlook
• PWP Outage Map: pwp.cityofpasadena.net/outage-map