US emergency order for PJM grid takes effect

The Energy Department authorised additional generating units and backup resources when needed. The measure runs from October 13 to 16.

Energy Secretary Chris Wright's order is intended to reduce blackout risks in the mid-Atlantic region. The department cited anticipated demand, a high number of planned generator shutdowns for autumn maintenance and scheduled transmission outages.

Grid operator PJM Interconnection is directed to dispatch specified generating units when necessary to maintain reliability. Backup resources may be used as a last resort before a level-three Energy Emergency Alert is declared or while it is in effect.

The department said the order followed an application PJM submitted on October 11. It expands the operator's available tools for a limited period. This is a preventive measure for potentially stressed conditions rather than a report of an existing widespread blackout. A previous similar order ran from September 17 to 18.