On Friday, August 14, PG&E was directed by the California Independent System Operator (CAISO) to turn off the power to about 200,000 to 250,000 customers at a time in rotating power outages given the strain on the power grid during the statewide heatwave, according to a PG&E announcement. Other power utilities in the state are being directed to take similar actions. CAISO can issue another round of rotating outages, especially as energy demand peaks mid to late-afternoon.
PG&E encourages customers to reduce electricity use, especially during the afternoon and evening, when air conditioners are typically at peak use.
Customers should also follow these conservation tips:
- Adjust thermostats to 78 degrees or higher if health permits or turn it off if you will be away from home. Use a fan instead of air conditioning, when possible.
- Draw drapes and turn off unnecessary lighting.
- Unplug phone charges, power strips (those without a switch) and other equipment when not in use. Avoid using electrical appliances and devices. Put off tasks such as vacuuming, laundry, dish washing and computer time until after 10 p.m.
- Set pool pumps to run overnight instead of during the day.
Comcast’s Internet, TV and landline telephone services for homes and businesses require commercial power to operate. During a power outage, these Comcast services may stop functioning within hours after the commercial power is shut off. Mobile phone service may also be affected.
Comcast understands this disruption to services is frustrating and has a major impact on people’s lives and businesses. The safety of our communities and employees is our utmost priority.
Here are a few things you can do to prepare for a power outage:
- Confirm your contact information at xfinity.com/myaccount—We will use this information to contact you if we expect a service disruption caused by a planned power outage. You can also use My Account to check if your service has been restored.
- Comcast Business customers can check their My Account app or the Comcast Business Status Center to get information and valuable updates.
- Download your favorite shows and movies for offline viewing—With the Xfinity Stream app, you can watch shows and movies offline in case you lose power.
- Download the Xfinity Connect App to receive Xfinity Voice calls via your mobile phone—Xfinity Voice customers can make and receive calls with their Xfinity phone number using their mobile phone.
- Visit the Comcast California Blog where we will post information, updates and answers to commonly asked questions.
- Follow us on Twitter —our handle is @ComcastCA and we regularly post valuable updates.
Even if power is off, Comcast’s team never stops working for you. From our family to yours, we hope you remain safe.
