PJM Gets Green Light to Push Data Centers Onto Back-Up Power During Heat Wave
The U.S. Department of Energy has authorized PJM Interconnection to require data centers and other large customers to activate back-up generators during an intense heatwave. This emergency order, lasting through July 3, aims to prevent power shut-offs and allows power-generating facilities to temporarily exceed pollution limits if necessary. The directive targets AI data centers due to their substantial energy demands, which are contributing to grid strain.
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), through an emergency order signed by Secretary Chris Wright, has granted PJM Interconnection the authority to mandate that data centers and other large electricity customers operate their back-up generators. This measure is deemed a "last resort" to avert power shut-offs across PJM's vast grid, which encompasses Maryland, Washington D.C., and a dozen other states, as temperatures are predicted to soar above 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Effective through July 3, the order specifically highlights AI data centers as contributors to immense energy demands that have "wreaked havoc on PJM's markets." Secretary Wright emphasized that deploying readily available back-up generation, including diesel and battery systems, can prevent blackouts. Critical facilities like hospitals and 911 centers are exempt from this mandate.
In a related move, the DOE also approved PJM's request to allow power-generating facilities to operate even if they exceed standard pollution limits, under the condition that such additional generation is necessary. PJM officials acknowledged this could lead to increased emissions of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and carbon monoxide. PJM is currently under a "hot weather alert" and has issued a "maximum generation alert," forecasting record electricity demand during the heatwave.