Trump Energy Department issues emergency order to prevent blackouts across 13 states amid unusual October heat
The Department of Energy authorized PJM Interconnection to tap backup power as unseasonably warm October temperatures strain the grid across 13 states.
TL;DR
- The Trump administration issued an emergency order to prevent blackouts in 13 states due to unseasonably warm October temperatures.
- The Department of Energy authorized PJM Interconnection to use additional power generation resources.
- The order allows certain generating facilities to operate beyond normal restrictions if needed to maintain electricity supplies.
- PJM serves all or parts of Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington D.C.
- PJM noted that rising electricity demand and unpredictable weather patterns are challenging grid reliability.
- The Department of Energy is also pursuing separate investments to strengthen the nation's electrical infrastructure, including projects with the Tennessee Valley Authority.