Full Breakdown
Impact of Planned Power Outages on California Schools
2/26/2026, 5:52:27 AM
Overview of Planned Power Outages
In California, planned power outages implemented by Southern California Edison (SCE) have significantly disrupted school operations during the 2024-2025 academic year. These outages, aimed at reducing wildfire risks during severe weather events, have forced multiple school districts in Riverside County to close or experience decreased attendance, impacting both educational services and financial stability.
Consequences of Power Outages on Schools
During the winter of 2024-2025, high winds and smoke from nearby fires led to widespread power outages affecting at least five school districts, including Val Verde Unified, Perris Elementary, and Jurupa Unified. Schools such as Orange Vista High School faced closures and significant attendance drops, with Val Verde reporting 13 lost instructional days due to these events. The closures not only disrupt learning but also deprive low-income families of essential services like meals and childcare, as many students rely on schools for their most nutritious meals.
Financial Implications for School Districts
The financial ramifications of these outages are profound. Schools receive funding based on attendance, meaning that closures or reduced student numbers directly affect their budgets. Districts like Perris Elementary, where over 90% of students are low-income, struggle to afford backup power solutions such as generators or battery storage systems. Superintendent Bruce Bivins emphasized that funds spent on emergency preparedness could be better allocated to immediate needs like security and technology upgrades.
Utility Company Responses and Criticism
SCE has faced criticism for its handling of power shutoffs, particularly regarding the short notice provided to schools. Reports indicate that notifications often come too late for adequate preparation, with some districts receiving alerts only after power has already been cut. In response to these issues, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) fined SCE $7.8 million for failing to meet notification requirements during outages. Critics argue that while SCE invests in fire risk analytics, it neglects the consequences of power outages on communities.
Official Statements & Responses
SCE spokesperson Jeff Monford stated that the utility's mission is to maintain power when safe, and that notifications for shutoffs are ideally given three days in advance, although emergent weather can complicate this. CPUC spokesperson Terrie Prosper acknowledged the disruptions caused by Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events but reiterated that these measures are necessary for wildfire prevention.
Criticism of Utility Practices
Critics, including Melissa Kasnitz from the Center for Accessible Technology, argue that the utility's focus on fire risk assessment overlooks the adverse effects of power outages on vulnerable populations. The lack of comprehensive planning for the consequences of these outages raises concerns about the adequacy of current utility practices.
What's Next for Schools and Utilities
As climate change continues to exacerbate extreme weather conditions, the frequency of power outages is expected to rise. School districts are advocating for changes in state funding policies to base financial support on enrollment rather than attendance, which would provide a buffer against the financial impacts of emergency closures. Meanwhile, SCE plans to expand its support programs for schools, including offering battery storage systems and emergency coordination calls, although the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It disrupts a lot of things and it puts people in a panic that I don’t think is necessary,” — LaKrecia Graham, Principal, Orange Vista High School
- “That could be better security on our campuses, more modernized facilities, better access to technology, or other things they can actually utilize right now versus the preparation for the possible one day this year (the power goes out).” — Bruce Bivins, Superintendent, Perris Elementary School District
- “We understand that PSPS events can be disruptive for schools,” — Terrie Prosper, CPUC Spokesperson
- “What they have not done is put any fraction of effort into evaluating the risk of what happens when you turn people’s power off.” — Melissa Kasnitz, Legal Director, Center for Accessible Technology
