Some Good News, California: the state’s electric grid operator has projected a slight surplus of electricity supplies for this summer, reducing the risk of blackouts during the hottest days. The California Independent System Operator released its 2023 summer assessment report on Tuesday, stating that additional battery energy storage and hydroelectric production will help meet the increased demand caused by residents turning on their air conditioners.
According to Bloomberg News, California will benefit from an additional 4,300 megawatts of battery energy storage and 1,300 more megawatts of hydroelectric production compared to last year. To put that into perspective, one megawatt is enough to power 750 California homes.
In recent years, California has faced challenges maintaining a stable power supply during extreme weather events. The projected surplus of electricity supplies brings a sigh of relief to California residents who have endured power disruptions in recent years.