Albertans asked to limit power use, as electrical system pushed to its limits

CALGARY- Calgarians trying their best to cool off in the scorching heat have pushed the electric system to its limits.

The mercury hit a sweltering 32 degrees on Tuesday afternoon, and people tried to cope by running fans and air conditioners.

However, that combined with a number of generators being out of service and low wind generation, nearly crippled the system.

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The Alberta Electric System Operator issued an appeal for Albertans to reduce their electricity use by:

• Turning off unnecessary lights and appliances
• Minimizing air conditioning use
• Closing blinds during the hottest time of day
• Not running major power-consuming equipment such as dishwashers and dryers until off-peak hours (after 7 p.m.)

The weather is expected to cool down on Wednesday, to a high of around 23 degrees.