PJM Interconnection reported that unusually hot weather in September placed additional pressure on the regional power grid. The grid operator serves Delaware, 12 other states and Washington, D.C.
Two periods of hot weather, from August 31 through September 4 and September 15 through September 18, required additional measures to maintain reliable electricity service. High demand, equipment outages and transmission limitations created challenges for grid operators, according to PJM.
During the first heat event, temperatures reached the low to mid-90s in parts of the region. Electricity demand peaked at approximately 152,800 megawatts on September 1. PJM activated programs that pay participating customers to reduce electricity use during periods of high demand. The U.S. Department of Energy also issued an emergency order allowing certain power plants to operate beyond normal restrictions.
The second heat event occurred during scheduled fall maintenance. On September 18, PJM reported generation and transmission outages totaling 37,916 megawatts, representing approximately 20.7% of system capacity. Electricity demand peaked near 127,000 megawatts on September 17. PJM again called on participating customers to reduce electricity consumption and coordinated with neighboring power grids.
PJM officials said electricity demand is growing faster than new power generation is being added. The grid also faced challenges during evening hours when solar power production declined and transmission limitations restricted electricity delivery in certain areas. Officials said scheduled maintenance remains necessary to prepare equipment for winter and summer, when electricity demand is typically highest.