In the summer, hundreds of thousands of air conditioners operating at the same time can sometimes push California's electrical system beyond capacity. These circumstances could result in a power interruption due to a state or local energy supply emergency. Effectively managing electric demand during these occasional peaks is a responsible way to help prevent power interruptions.

The SmartAC program makes it easy for residential and small business customers to help by automatically cycling participating air conditioners which reduces their energy consumption. Because it is automatic, you don't have to do anything and most customers don't even notice when it happens.

Watch Now: SmartAC Informational Video

How does SmartAC interact with my air conditioner?

Installed on or near your air conditioner (AC) unit for free, a SmartAC device can be remotely activated in anticipation of a state or local energy supply emergency. This is called an "event." When activated, your AC will do what it would normally do for about 15 minutes of every half hour-make cool air. For the other 15 minutes, your system fan will circulate already cool air and your AC will make cool air again when the next 15-minute cycle begins. SmartAC technology is installed by a certified technician and maintained for free as long as you participate in the SmartAC program.

How does SmartAC benefit me and my community?

When you participate in the SmartAC program you help prevent power interruptions in your community and throughout California. Plus, you'll earn a reward for participating. Working together, current SmartAC community members can help keep over 77,000 homes in California powered in the event of an energy supply emergency.*

When can a SmartAC event be called?

Because SmartAC’s benefit is maximized when air conditioners are running, events can only be called between May 1 and October 31 and never for more than six hours per day.

Will I be hot on event days?

The SmartAC device that is installed in your property typically does not raise temperatures above 4 degrees. Most customers participating in our study groups didn’t even notice their device was activated. And, with the exception of extreme energy emergencies, if a SmartAC event day happens on a day you do not wish to participate, you're in control. You can login or call a PG&E SmartAC representative at 1-866-908-4916 and ask to not participate that day**—without penalty. Your air conditioner will be returned to its previous settings.

*Participation in SmartAC reduces the risk and severity of power interruptions in the PG&E service territory that may result from an extreme energy supply emergency.

**The ability to opt out for the day may not be available in the event of an extreme emergency.