PJM Emergency Power Order Allows Backup Resources
The U.S. Department of Energy has authorized the PJM Interconnection to utilize backup power resources, including batteries and generators, to maintain grid reliability. This order is effective from October 13 to October 16, 2026, due to high demand and transmission constraints.
Why it matters
This highlights the fragility of regional power grids and the regulatory measures taken to prevent blackouts during periods of high demand.
DOE has authorized conditional use of PJM backup generators and batteries for October 13–16 amid forecast demand, generation outages and transmission constraints.
Add Microgrid Media An electrical substation in Roaring Spring, Pennsylvania, photographed May 23, 2008. This archival image represents regional grid infrastructure; it does not depict a resource dispatched under DOE’s October 2026 order. Credit: Andrew Bossi / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5. The U.S. Department of Energy has issued a PJM emergency power order authorizing additional generation and conditional use of backup resources, including batteries, during a forecast period of tight electricity supply. Issued October 12, Order No. 202-26-50 is effective October 13 through October 16, 2026.
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