SDG&E Prepares for High-Demand Summer | San Diego Union-Tribune

San Diego Braces for “superior” Wildfire Season: Experts Predict High Risk Through Autumn

san Diego, CA – June 30, 2025 – San Diego County is facing a heightened risk of wildfires this summer and fall, with experts warning of conditions ripe for “superior” fire activity. A combination of severely reduced rainfall – currently at 50% of normal levels – and anticipated warm temperatures are creating a risky environment of dry vegetation, according to Brian D’Agostino, Meteorologist and Vice President of Forest Fire and Climatology at San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E).

“We foresee a fire activity superior as we advance this summer,” D’Agostino stated, adding that this increased potential could extend well into the autumn months. “Just a fire” is all it takes to significantly impact the community, mirroring the unpredictable nature of hurricane season in Florida.

Advanced Monitoring & Preparedness

SDG&E is leveraging cutting-edge technology to monitor and mitigate wildfire risk. A network of over 130 cameras provides real-time imagery of high-risk areas, complemented by 223 stations measuring wind speed, temperature, and humidity every ten minutes. This data is integrated with information from the National Weather service and analyzed using artificial intelligence, allowing for proactive hazard assessment.

This complex system isn’t solely focused on wildfires. “All these tools help us to be resilient before all kinds of hazards related to climate,” D’Agostino explained.unprecedented Winter Conditions Foreshadow Summer Concerns

The warning comes after an unusually active winter, which saw San Diego experience six santa Ana wind events – some exceeding 100 mph – beginning in January. This early and intense activity led to an unprecedented three weeks of Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) implemented by SDG&E to prevent electrical equipment from sparking fires in dry, windy conditions.These shutoffs primarily impacted rural communities like Alpine, Julian, Fallbrook, and Valley Center.

“In the 16 years that I have been working on this, we had never had an electricity supply cut for public safety that would last three weeks before January,” D’Agostino noted.

Recent Fires serve as a Stark Reminder

Just last week, firefighters battled two fires near Lakeside, with the largest burning over 400 hectares and prompting evacuations. This recent activity serves as a worrying precursor to the challenges ahead.

Looking Ahead: Preparedness is Key

While acknowledging the potential for further PSPS events this summer and fall, D’Agostino emphasized the region’s increased preparedness. “I would say that we are more prepared than ever to support the community

How can SDG&E ensure equitable access to these energy efficiency programs and resources for all San Diego residents, considering potential economic disparities?

SDG&E Prepares for High-Demand Summer: Keeping the Lights On in San Diego

As summer approaches, the demand for electricity surges across San Diego County. San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) is diligently working to ensure a reliable power supply for its customers. This article provides a comprehensive overview of SDG&E’s preparedness efforts, focusing on peak demand management, infrastructure improvements, and energy efficiency initiatives, and what you can do to help.

Infrastructure Upgrades and grid Modernization for Summer Reliability

SDG&E invests heavily in its infrastructure to accommodate the increased electricity demands during the summer months. These investments not only enhance reliability but also improve grid resilience, incorporating smart grid technologies to optimize power distribution.

Key Infrastructure Projects

SDG&E undertakes several key projects to fortify its grid for the summer season. These include:

• Substation Enhancements: Upgrading existing substations and constructing new ones to increase capacity and improve fault detection and response times.
• Transmission and Distribution Line Maintenance: Proactive maintenance and upgrades of power lines to prevent outages caused by weather and other factors.
• Smart Grid Deployment: Implementing advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) and smart meters to provide real-time data and improve grid management and response to localized power outages.

Grid Modernization Benefits

The shift towards grid modernization is crucial for meeting the rising energy needs of San Diego residents and businesses:

• Enhanced Reliability: Smart grid technologies can detect and isolate faults rapidly, minimizing the impact of outages.
• Improved Efficiency: Real-time monitoring and control enable efficient electricity distribution.
• Integration of Renewables: Modern infrastructure supports the integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, into the grid.

Peak Demand Management Strategies

Managing peak demand is a critical component of SDG&E’s summer preparedness plan. SDG&E implements various programs and strategies to reduce peak load and maintain grid stability during periods of high demand. These strategies include:

Demand Response Programs

These programs encourage customers to use less electricity during peak hours. Some popular examples include:

• Summer Saver: Residential customers can receive credits for reducing their electricity usage during peak demand periods.
• Smart Thermostat Programs: Participating customers can have their smart thermostats automatically adjust temperatures during peak hours to save on energy and lower their bills.

Energy Storage Solutions

SDG&E is actively investing in energy storage solutions to enhance grid reliability and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Real-World Example of Energy Storage in Action

One example includes battery storage projects. These systems store energy during off-peak hours and discharge it during peak demand, reducing strain on the grid. As a notable example, SDG&E operates several large-scale battery energy storage systems (BESS) across San Diego County adding grid reliability, and enabling the integration of more renewable energy.

Energy Efficiency Tips for san Diego Residents

In addition to SDG&E’s efforts, residents can play a role in managing summer energy demand through various energy-saving practices. By adopting these strategies,you can not only reduce your electricity bill but also contribute to a more lasting energy future for San Diego.

Practical Energy-Saving Measures

• Adjust Your Thermostat: Set your thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit or higher when you’re home and even higher when you’re away. Using a programmable thermostat can automate this process.
• Use energy-Efficient Appliances: Replace old appliances with Energy Star-certified models.
• Seal Air Leaks: Seal cracks and gaps around windows and doors to prevent air leaks.
• Use Fans: Use ceiling fans and portable fans to circulate air and make rooms feel cooler.
• Time Your Energy Use: Run appliances like dishwashers and washing machines during off-peak hours (e.g.,before 4 pm or after 9 pm).

Explore further resources offered by SDG&E and focus on the energy efficiency measures that best fit your lifestyle.

Energy saving Tip	Benefit
Programmable Thermostat	Reduced energy usage, lower bills, automatic temperature control
Energy Star Appliances	Reduced electricity consumption, long-term cost savings
LED Lighting	Lower energy bills, longer lifespan, reduced heat output
Regular HVAC Maintenance	improved efficiency, prolonged lifespan, reduced energy consumption

For more detailed advice on how to save on your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint, explore the resources available by SDG&E. Learn more about participating in demand response programs and rebates on energy-efficient appliances directly from SDG&E.

The Future of Energy in San Diego

SDG&E’s commitment to grid modernization, renewable energy, and customer engagement ensures a resilient and sustainable energy future for San Diego and the surrounding areas. The company continues to explore new technologies and strategies to meet the evolving energy needs of the community, including further integration of renewable energy sources and continued efforts to bolster the grid’s resilience to climate change impacts, such as extreme heat events. SDG&E strives to provide reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy to support the San Diego region’s economic and environmental goals.