Key facts
- The U.S. Department of Energy declared a national emergency for the PJM Interconnection grid.
- The declaration is due to surging electricity demand and limited generation capacity.
- PJM Interconnection warned of an imminent electricity reliability emergency.
- Peak loads are projected to exceed 159,000 MW on July 1 and July 2, 2026.
- Environmental or state requirements may constrain some generation units.
The U.S. Department of Energy has declared a national emergency for the PJM Interconnection, the nation's largest power grid, as extreme heat is expected to drive up electricity demand and strain supply. The order, issued under Section 202(c) of the Federal Power Act, acknowledges a statutory emergency exists due to a combination of surging demand and limited generation capacity.
PJM Interconnection submitted a request on June 29, warning of an imminent electricity reliability emergency. The grid operator is projecting peak loads of approximately 159,563 megawatts (MW) on July 1, 2026, and 162,860 MW on July 2, 2026. These levels raise risks of supply shortfalls that could threaten grid stability.
Additionally, PJM flagged that some generation units might face constraints due to restrictions under environmental permits or state requirements. The Department of Energy stated the order is necessary to ensure sufficient electricity supply and protect public safety, as extreme weather conditions could lead to system stress impacting the ability to meet demand across the large swath of the eastern United States served by PJM.