US Energy Department issues emergency order for 17-state power grid amid hot weather

The US Department of Energy has taken emergency action for the bulk electric system covering 17 central and western states. The order, directed at the Southwest Power Pool (SPP), authorizes the grid operator to dispatch generation units as required to ensure reliability.

This move comes in response to high temperatures that are straining the power grid. The emergency order allows SPP to keep the lights on by bringing all available generation online, even if that means overriding normal market or operational constraints for a limited time.

The measure highlights the ongoing stress on the US power infrastructure during extreme weather events, with operators taking proactive steps to prevent blackouts. The order will remain in effect as long as grid reliability is deemed at risk.