AUGUST 2020
CALIFORNIA ISO ISSUED FLEX ALERTS DURING HEAT WAVE
The California Independent System Operator (CAISO) is the non-profit organization that oversees the state’s power grid. The combination of high temperatures and high energy use caused a tremendous strain on the state’s power system mid-August, which prompted the CAISO to issue statewide Flex Alerts. These Alerts are a “call-to-action” for consumers to voluntarily conserve electricity when there is a predicted shortage of energy supply. 
 
The City of Pasadena has the added benefit of having its own local power resources, Glenarm Power Plant, which has the capability of generating power within ten minutes, both to meet the City’s needs or to support the state’s power grid. Although Pasadena has local resources to meet its customers’ energy needs, PWP is part of the regional electric grid managed by the CAISO. Therefore, if or when PWP receives direction from CAISO to curtail load, compliance is essential. 
  
Energy conservation by customers makes a difference. When a flex alert is issued, immediately: 
  • Set the thermostat at 78˚ or higher; 
  • Refrain from using high-energy appliances until after 9 p.m.; 
  • Draw shades, utilize blinds and curtains to prevent heat from entering windows; 
  • Unplug devices when not in use – they continue to draw energy when plugged in. 
BE PREPARED FOR EMERGENCIES WITH THESE TIPS
Are you and your loved ones ready in case a natural disaster or emergency strikes? Residents should always be prepared to be without electricity or tap water for an extended period of time.

Here are some tips to help you be prepared.
  • Stock emergency kits with enough food, water, weather protection and hygiene/medical supplies for at least 72 hours.
  • Store 1 gallon of water per person per day, and don’t forget to store food and water for pets.
  • Always keep fresh batteries, flashlights, ice chests, battery powered radios and manual hand cranks or car chargers ready in case of an extended power outage.
  • Review your emergency communications and shelter plans with family, friends, coworkers and neighbors.
 
Sign up for PWP’s Outage Management System; updated your contact information or register online when you log-in to your account.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR CUSTOMERS WHO USE
AT-HOME MEDICAL EQUIPMENT
Do you rely on a medical device? If so, it helps to keep your local utility informed. Call PWP Customer Service at 626.744.4005.

Depending on the type of medical device, you could also receive bill assistance of $10/month.Some of the included equipment types are: Apnea monitors, kidney dialysis machines, pressure pads, motorized wheelchairs, and more.

Visit us online to view a full list, and submit an application.
PWP'S HOME IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM PROVIDES UP TO $4,000 IN FREE UPGRADES
Pasadena residents can receive up to $4,000 in home improvements that reduce energy and water use, helping homeowners save money. For in-person services, vendor will be practicing social distancing and following health and safety guidelines. PWP's Home Improvement Program offers FREE personalized services that include home evaluations, customized savings tips, and the installation of efficient products that may include:
  • High Efficiency Toilets
  • Smart Thermostats
  • Central AC Tune Up
  • LED Light Bulbs

PWP has resumed in-person program services, but continues to offer virtual home audits as well.To sign up for the program, call us at 626.788.9838 or visit us at PWPweb.com/HIP.

Home improvement services are also available for low-income customers, visit PWPweb.com/UnderOneRoof to learn more.

Actual measures installed depend on the eligibility of the home. Participants must be Pasadena Water and Power residential electric customers.
RECEIVE $5,000 FOR COLLEGE WITH PWP’S ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIP
Each year, PWP awards high school seniors in Pasadena with a first place $5,000 and another second place $2,500 educational scholarship to help cover the costs of college. To apply, students must write a 300-500 word essay and provide academic transcripts. This year’s essay topic focuses on the challenges utilities faced during COVID-19, as well as the support relationship between the utility and the community.
 
Applicants must:
  • Currently be a senior at a high school in Pasadena, and able to provide academic transcripts
  • Be a resident within the Pasadena Water and Power service territory
  • Plan to be enrolled as a full time student at a two- or four-year accredited post-secondary institution for the 2021-2022 academic year
 
Essays, applications and transcripts are due by April 5, 2021.
Customer Service: 626.744.4005
Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., except holidays
For assistance with general information and non-account inquiries, email [email protected].
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