The California Public Utilities Commission issued a temporary order blocking the plan by San Diego Gas and Electric to preemptively shut off the electricity for up to 150,000 people at a time when the fire danger meets their predetermined criteria. SDG&E had expected to implement the plan on September 1, but the commission put a halt to it at least until they can meet on September 10.
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The power company has said shutting off the electricity during dry and windy conditions would prevent fires that could be started by their power lines. Many groups are opposed to the plan, including schools, water districts, and disabled people who rely on life-sustaining equipment. One study found that there are 900 people in the affected area with chronic medical problems. Of those, 590 rely on electrical equipment for thier well being.
SDG&E’s outage plan
Article – REGION: Mountain Town is Model for SDG&E Shutoff Planhttp://www.nctimes.com/news/local/sdcounty/article_0ccda37b-1e70-575d-8c0d-5592192aaf11.htmlNote: Edison cut power also to the communities of Forest Falls, Angelus Oaks, Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead, and surrounding communities during this same period to reduce the potential of new starts.