Coping with the Fuel Shortage: A Guide for Los Angeles Residents.

An assessment of California's current energy situation in terms of sources of supply, uses, and conservation. Due to declining in-state production and reduced deliveries from other sources, California's natural gas supplies will be about 8 percent less in 1974 than in 1973, perhaps 15 percent less in 1975, and 23 percent less in 1976. Cutbacks will mostly affect industry and electric utilities, which will consequently increase their demands for oil products by about 14 percent in 1974. By mid-1974, if the Arab oil embargo continues, oil supplies could be 20-30 percent below mid-1973 levels. In Los Angeles, the Department of Water and Power (DWP) anticipates a 43 percent shortfall in electricity, which may result in temporary service interruptions beginning February 1974. In their discussion of conservation measures, the authors have included tables showing the normal energy consumption by household lighting and appliances, the effects of household insulation, the effects of automobile speed and size on mileage, etc. Emergency plans of the DWP and Southern California Edison are also discussed. 24 pp.