Energy Department issues emergency orders for mid-Atlantic power grid amid heat wave

As an electric grid operator warns of potential power shortages amid this week’s heat wave, the Trump administration is issuing emergency orders aiming to maximize output.

Energy Secretary Chris Wright issued orders directing grid operator PJM to dispatch more power generation from various fossil fuel plants, as needed, despite environmental restrictions that are typically in place.

He also authorized PJM to direct backup power sources to “operate as a last resort.”

The orders come after PJM, which stands for Pennsylvania-New Jersey-Maryland, warned of an emergency situation because of the hot weather.

“PJM is projecting peak loads of approximately 159,563 MW on July 1, 2026 and approximately 162,860 MW on July 2, 2026,” said a letter from........

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