Understanding Peak Alerts

What is a Peak Alert?
When extreme temperatures drive up the demand for energy across our service territory and regional grid, MidAmerican Energy will notify customers of a Peak Alert. This important notice is our request for all our customers to voluntarily conserve energy.

Customers will be notified through our website, social media channels and local news reports. Those who are subscribed to alerts will receive additional information.

When are Peak Alerts issued?
Peak Alerts may be issued when energy use is in high demand across MidAmerican’s service area or even across the region. This is often associated with extreme temperatures – either hot or cold. We may also issue a call to conserve energy when we are directed by our regional transmission authority to reduce the electric load.

What should I do in the event of a Peak Alert?
During Peak Alerts, help us save energy and reduce demand for electricity by taking the quick actions below.

In the summer...

Set your thermostat 5 to 8 degrees higher

Delay using large appliances (ovens, washers or dryers) until late evening or early morning

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Turn off your A/C and run ceiling fans counterclockwise or use portable fans to circulate cool air throughout the room

Block direct sunlight by closing shades and curtains

In the winter...

Set your thermostat 5 to 8 degrees lower

Open your curtains on sunny winter days. To help insulate your windows, close curtains at night and on days without direct sunlight

Reduce the usage of space heaters and other large appliances

Keep doors closed to retain the heat inside

Wear warm clothing while you are indoors

See more summer and winter energy-saving tips you can follow, not only during a Peak Alert, but throughout the year!

Sign up for text alerts

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Stay in the know with your phone! You can receive updates about any outages in your area by signing up for text alerts on My Account.

Choose your notification preferences and get the notifications you want, how you want them.