The California power grid operator says the system is healthy. A performance scorecard shows the system delivered more power last year at less expense. KPBS reporter Ed Joyce tells us officials say the system is in good shape for summer when Californians use more power.
The California Independent System Operator says last year was its best ever for power grid operations. The not-for-profit agency is charged with managing the state's electricity grid to ensure a steady supply of power. Cal ISO President Yakout Mansour says it cost the system less money in 2006 to provide reliable power than it did in 2005.
Mansour: We can tell you again that reliability was maintained at the highest level ever.
Mansour says powering the state's growing economy continues to challenge the system.
Mansour: This coming summer I can tell you that so far all indications is that we have enough additions that would balance the growth so we end up about the same situation as we had last year.
He says conservation and voluntary cutbacks in electricity use when needed are key strategies to maintain a steady supply of power. Ed Joyce, KPBS News.