Feds: Data centers must use generators to preserve power, prevent blackouts during heat wave demand
A federal emergency order has been issued by the U.S. Department of Energy, requiring data centers and other major energy users in PJM's service area to switch to backup generators during a heat wave. This measure aims to preserve power and prevent blackouts across the Mid-Atlantic and parts of the Midwest. Duke Energy, which serves the Carolinas but is not part of PJM, expects to meet energy demand without issues.
A federal emergency order has been issued by the U.S. Department of Energy, signed by Energy Secretary Chris Wright, to ensure the nation's power grid remains operational during an extreme heat wave over the holiday weekend. This order, requested by PJM, the largest power grid operator serving the Mid-Atlantic and parts of the Midwest, including areas of North Carolina served by Dominion Energy, mandates that data centers and other major energy consumers switch to backup generators. The measure is intended to preserve power and prevent blackouts.
PJM sought the emergency order due to an "imminent electric reliability emergency" threatening transmission reliability. While this order impacts a broad region, Duke Energy spokesman Jeff Brooks stated that Duke Energy's units in the Carolinas are not part of PJM's grid and anticipate meeting customer demand without issues. The order is set to expire on Friday at 11:59 p.m. EDT.