Albertans asked to turn off lights, appliances

Albertans could facean energy emergency unless theyreduce their power use on Monday afternoon, the Alberta Electric System Operator warns.

The weekend's hot weather dramatically increased power consumption, said Nancy Janes, a spokeswoman forAESO, which oversees the province's electrical system.

As well, several large power generating units have not beenproviding electricity for the grid, although the AESO doesn't know why, Janes said.

She recommended people turn off unnecessary lights and electrical appliances.

"It's about shutting blinds and curtains and that sort of thing to keep their homes cool. The other thing is to reduce the usage of high power-consuming equipment like washers, dryers and dishwashers."

Importing from neighbours

Electricity is being imported fromBritish Columbiaand Saskatchewan, but the power lines linking Alberta with those provinces have a limited capacity.

Companies that had previously agreed to cut their power usage in the event of an electricity shortage were being contacted to see whether they could immediately curtail their operations.

Since June, Albertans have broken six energy use records, mostly due to an increased use of air conditioners and irrigation systems.

The Alberta Electric System Operator was hoping to avoid the setting another record on Monday.

Water systems taxed

Water utilities are alsofeeling the pressure of soaring temperatures.

Beaumont, south of Edmonton, hasn't been able to keep up with consumer demand for water.

Officials have introduced a total ban on non-essential water use, effective immediately. The town's water park has been closed down.

The Okotoks region south of Calgary has also banned non-essential water use. Residents and businesses can only use water outdoors during specified times.