The City of Los Angeles recently launched SaveEnergy LA, a campaign encouraging Angelenos to make small changes in their lives to reduce the amount of power they use every day. Mayor Eric Garcetti kicked off the campaign by turning off the lights at dozens of buildings, including City Hall.

With increasing heat due to climate change, more residents and businesses crank up their air conditioners at the same time they’re using energy for lights, appliances and other needs. This puts a strain on neighborhood power distribution equipment and the entire electricity grid, especially on hot days. In the aftermath of the disastrous Aliso Canyon leak, the electric grid is under extra pressure this summer, creating a higher risk of power outages during peak days.

LA has an energy reduction target for municipal buildings of five percent from August to October, the region’s hottest months. SaveEnergy LA also encourages commercial building owners, universities, and other large employers to aim for the same reduction target in their facilities.

Find tips and incentives offered to help save more energy here: www.SaveEnergyLA.org.