Electrical Stage Alerts

Learn how to prepare for the 3 possible stages of electrical alerts.

Stay informed

Electricity alerts are possible during warm summer weather. The California Independent Systems Operator (ISO) and San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) issue alerts through a 3-stage warning system, and UCSD will relay any warnings to the campus community.

• ISO System Conditions: See today's outlook.
• To receive instant energy alert notifications, subscribe to the "electricalstagealerts-l" mailing list.

Note: UCSD and Facilities Management have no control over statewide electrical emergencies. These emergencies are defined and controlled by the ISO and SDG&E.

Learn about what each stage means and the appropriate actions to take:

Note: If the ISO issues a rolling blackout, UCSD will receive only a 15-minute or shorter warning from SDG&E. Therefore, your actions during Stage 1 and Stage 2 alerts are crucial.

Stage 1 — Voluntary load reduction:

A shortfall in the electricity operating reserve is unavoidable or will likely occur within 2 hours.

• What you should do: Turn off all unnecessary lights and equipment (such as fans, coffee machines, microwaves). If possible, do not start sensitive work.

Stage 2 — Forced load reduction:

A serious shortfall in the operating reserve (bringing it to less than 5% of normal levels) is unavoidable or will likely occur within 2 hours. (UCSD will engage a global load-shedding program to reduce air-conditioning loads in non-critical areas.)

• What you should do: Save and secure all sensitive work immediately. (You may not receive sufficient notice between Stage 2 and Stage 3 alerts.)
  • See What to Do During a Rolling Blackout and How to Prepare for a Power Failure in a Lab.

Stage 3 — Blackout is imminent:

A critical shortfall in the operating reserve (bringing it to less than 1½% of normal levels) is unavoidable or will likely occur within 2 hours. Without significant ISO intervention, the electric system could collapse. Rolling blackouts will occur as required to keep the operating reserve above 1½%. Again, if the ISO issues a rolling blackout, UCSD will receive only a 15-minute or shorter warning from SDG&E.

• What you should do: Save and secure all sensitive work — this is your last chance to do so. Reduce electricity consumption wherever possible.

Other energy conservation information:

• Energy Management at UCSD
• Environment and Sustainability
• How You Can Help Promote Sustainability
• Examine Your Environmental Impact
• SDG&E Energy Update

Note: This page has a friendly link that's easy to remember: http://blink.ucsd.edu/go/energy

Facilities & Services

Maintenance and Repair

• Lock and Key Services
• Sign Fabrication Services
• Electrical Stage Alerts
  • Rolling Blackouts
• Indoor Floods
• Electrical Utility Systems