California ISO Releases Report on Summer Electricity Supplies

FOLSOM, CA--(Marketwired - May 18, 2016) - According to an annual report released today by the California Independent System Operator (ISO), summer power reserves will be adequate for most of the state, even as natural gas supply shortages threaten reliability in southern California. 

The ISO's 2016 Summer Loads and Resources Assessment conducts a yearly analysis of supply and demand projections for California's summer months. The Assessment notes a multi-agency report conducted in April specifically on shortages related to last year's natural gas leak at the Aliso Canyon storage facility in the Los Angeles area. That report found significant risks to electricity deliveries, potentially leading to 14 days of electrical outages in southern California.

"The natural gas issues facing southern California this summer will require deft management, particularly during hot days when power plants fueled by natural gas are needed to meet peak demand," said ISO CEO and President Steve Berberich. "The ISO has moved quickly to put into place new mechanisms to reduce the impact of gas curtailments on electric reliability. We are also asking consumers to respond to calls for energy conservation on days we call a Flex Alert."

The 2016 Summer Assessment found that supplies will be adequate under typical state summer weather conditions. The Assessment, developed in close coordination with state energy agencies, shows the following:

• Total net qualifying generation capacity available this summer is expected to be about 54,459 megawatts, a net increase of 1,951 megawatts from June 1, 2015; and
  
  
• 2016 summer peak is projected to be about 47,529 megawatts, which reflects projected modest economic growth over 2015.
  
  
  •  2015 summer peak was 47,257 megawatts set on September 10. 
    
    
  •  All-time summer peak was set on July 24, 2006 at 50,270 megawatts.

Separate from the potential Aliso Canyon impacts, the state-wide outlook is positive for the summer. Continued moderate peak demand growth, combined with new power plants coming online and improved hydroelectric generation conditions will support possible extreme operating conditions.

Click here to view the Assessment. To visit the ISO's Today's Outlook page click here, which displays the day's use of renewables, and current supply and demand conditions. Click here for more information about the Aliso Canyon action plan and technical assessment.

California ISO Media Hotline | 888.516.6397

250 Outcropping Way | Folsom, California 95630 | www.caiso.com

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The California ISO provides open and non-discriminatory access to one of the largest power grids in the world. The vast network of high-voltage transmission power lines is supported by a competitive energy market and comprehensive grid planning. Partnering with about a hundred clients, the nonprofit public benefit corporation is dedicated to the continual development and reliable operation of a modern grid that operates for the benefit of consumers. Recognizing the importance of the global climate challenge, the ISO is at the forefront of integrating renewable power and advanced technologies that will help meet a sustainable energy future efficiently and cleanly.

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