(WWJ) – Some states like California are used to rolling blackouts and brownouts – controlled power outages to save energy.
That’s never really happened in Michigan, but that could be about to change this summer after the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) – the regional power grid operator that oversees Michigan’s power supplies – warned there could be energy shortfalls in June, July and August.
In a new edition of The Daily J podcast, WWJ’s Zach Clark dives into why this might happen, what it would mean for Metro Detroiters and who exactly people should be mad at if it does.
Last month JT Smith, executive director of market operations at MISO, says there’s a possibility that some areas, including Michigan, could be at an “increased risk of temporary, controlled outages to preserve the integrity of the bulk electric system.”
So-called controlled brownouts could be necessary to maintain the grid’s reliability in a summer that is expected to be warmer than usual. But DTE Energy and Consumers Energy have both said they'll be plenty prepared for the summer season.
Related
