(IID hits a new energy peak)…It happened during the recent excessive heat wave.

With temperatures reaching 116 degrees around 5:00 pm Friday, July 31, the new all time demand for power from the Imperial Irrigation District’s power system rose to 1,106 megawatts, surpassing the previous energy peak by 33 megawatts, which was set in June 2017. A peak is considered to be the highest demand for energy, system wide, at a single point in time. Energy manager Marilyn del Bosque Gilbert said despite the increase in temperatures and strain on the electrical grid, IID was able to meet customer demand. Still, customers are being asked to do their part in reducing the load on the electrical system. Set thermostats at 78 degrees. Avoid using major appliances such as washers, dryers and dishwashers between peak hours of 4 to 8 pm. Use floor or ceiling fans, and turn them off when you leave the room. And block the sun from overheating your home.