We should conserve, not to save California, but to free up power to sell for our own benefit. We aren't sacrificing to spare Californians grief. We are sacrificing to avoid problems for ourselves. Local governments, schools and businesses already are making conservation efforts, and the savings can be substantial. Homeowners should join the effort.
Most people know what to do.
Turn down thermostats, run the dishwasher when its full, shorten your shower, insulate, and more. We aren't used to conserving. There are still people in Wenatchee burning Christmas lights, amazingly. But we need to change our attitude. The depth and consequences of this regional energy shortage are startling and more far-reaching than we could have imagined.