The largest electrical grid operator in the United States issued an emergency energy alert in light of an intense nationwide heat wave pushing temperatures in many parts of the country near record levels.
The operator, called PJM Interconnection, serves the midwest, Mid-Atlantic and Southern New England, issuing the alerts to prepare for the surge of energy demand brought on by sweltering conditions.
Some parts of the U.S. have already seen peak temperatures reach as high as 100 degrees, with the potential to become even higher. These extreme weather conditions that have been seen recently around the world – from heat waves and droughts to floods and storms – have caused PJM to take a conservative approach in handling energy demand.
The demand for electricity has already topped 140,000 megawatts on Wednesday, exceeding even the peak recorded last year of 149,000 megawatts. For Thursday and Friday, the forecasted peak is expected to climb to 153,000 MW and 154,000 MW respectively.
PJM’s emergency energy alert provides generators with an early notification system that could require emergency procedures should extreme weather conditions disrupt the system. The company emphasized that there are currently no emergencies or emergency actions, but is prepared should it be required.
As July is set to become the hottest month on record globally, extreme heat sections parts of the country including the Southwest, central U.S., Mid-Atlantic and Southern New England. Residents of these areas are being advised to find relief from the oppressive heat and drink plenty of fluids.
This intense heat wave is an eye-opening reminder of the power of Mother Nature and how closely our environment is linked to us. As temperatures rise and weather grows increasingly volatile, understanding the need for emergency plans and precautions is becoming more and more important.
Amid all this Biden is forcing Americans to stop using gas and go fully electric.
