As temperatures rise across the region, San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) has been preparing to meet the increasing demands of summer. Through year-round planning, infrastructure investments and customer-focused programs, SDG&E works hard to deliver safe, reliable and sustainable power — even during the most extreme heat events.
“At SDG&E, preparation isn’t seasonal — it’s a continuous effort,” said Kevin Geraghty, chief operations officer and chief safety officer. “We prepare year-round with the goal of ensuring our grid is strong, our systems are resilient and our customers are supported. As we head into the summer months, our teams stand ready — backed by innovation, strategic investment, and a deep commitment to reliability.”
Powering Progress: Grid Enhancements and Energy Storage
SDG&E recently completed a major expansion of the Westside Canal Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project adding 100 megawatts (MW) of energy storage capacity – enough to power up to 100,000 homes during peak demand for four hours. The West Side Canal facility now boasts 231 MW of energy storage capacity and is the largest asset in SDG&E’s utility-owned battery storage portfolio.
This expansion represents a significant step forward in strengthening regional grid reliability and enhancing community resilience. Just like a freeway at rush hour, transmission lines can become congested during the day. That’s where our cutting-edge energy storage facility steps in — capturing clean, abundant solar and wind power when those lines are full and releasing it back onto the grid when congestion clears.
By investing in advanced battery storage technology, SDG&E is helping ensure that the region receives the energy it needs, exactly when it needs it — furthering its goal of delivering safe, dependable energy, especially during periods of high demand and extreme weather.
A Statewide Effort: Working Together for Grid Stability
California’s electric grid is interconnected across the state and with neighboring Western states. This means that events in other regions can impact local service. To achieve more reliable service for its customers, SDG&E coordinates closely with the California Independent System Operator (CAISO) to monitor grid conditions and respond proactively to potential resource shortages.
Stay Updated During Outages
While SDG&E has taken extensive steps to prepare, outages may still occur due to extreme weather or regional grid stress. Customers can visit sdge.com/outages for real-time updates and safety information.