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Millions Face Blackout Risk as Heat Grips US Grids
2 Sep
Summary
- US Energy Department warns of potential power outages.
- PJM Interconnection serves 67 million across multiple states.
- Record heat expected to strain electricity supplies on Wednesday.
Intense heat is expected to significantly increase the risk of power outages across a large portion of the United States on Wednesday. The US Department of Energy has issued a warning regarding potential disruptions within the PJM Interconnection, the nation's largest electric grid, which provides power to 67 million individuals across a territory extending from Washington DC to Chicago.
On Tuesday night, the energy secretary authorized PJM to utilize backup generation resources as a final measure before enacting a level three energy emergency alert. This action is intended to stabilize the grid and mitigate blackout risks during a period of high demand. Cities like Chicago, St. Louis, and Washington DC are anticipated to experience temperatures above 90°F (32°C) during peak electricity usage times.
The Midcontinent Independent System Operator (Miso), responsible for 15 Midwestern and Southern states, also anticipates near-record electricity demand on Wednesday. Miso has increased its reserve requirements as a precaution against unexpected power plant failures and transmission line congestion. In rural Missouri, local cooperatives are urging customers to conserve energy by unplugging devices and adjusting thermostats due to the extreme heat.
