The U.S. Department of Energy on Sept. 1 issued an emergency order to mitigate blackout risks in the Mid-Atlantic ahead of forecasted hot weather conditions and expected system load increase.
The order directs the PJM Interconnection to dispatch specified units and to order their operation as needed to maintain reliability.
The order also authorizes PJM to direct backup generation resources to operate as a last resort before declaring an Energy Emergency Alert (EEA) 3 or during an EEA 3. PJM is authorized to call upon its Transmission Owners and Electric Distribution Companies to implement the order as needed. The order was issued pursuant to an application from PJM submitted on September 1, 2026.
The order is in effect through September 8, 2026.
