The reason for this trigger is that when reserves fall below this level, loss of that size unit to an unexpected mechanical failure could lead to blackouts somewhere since insufficient backup is available. The Alert starts actions to increase reserves. For example, available emergency supply options would be explored. Additionally, utilities can reduce electric demand through load management programs. Close to 1500 MW of load management is available statewide.
Utilities also can ask consumers to implement voluntary conservation measures.
Some utilities have industrial or commercial customers on interruptible service. Under this agreement, the customer gets lower priced energy in exchange for the utility's right to interrupt their electricity on short notice to lower electric demand. The difference between load management and interruptible service is that the first selectively cycles specific appliances on and off for short periods of time, while the second cuts off service to the industrial load entirely. A little more than 1100 MW of interruptible load is available statewide. Rolling blackouts, manually activated by utilities, are a last resort to avoid system overload and possible equipment damage.