The United States’ largest power grid operator, PJM Interconnection, issued a maximum generation alert on Tuesday, with hot weather expected to hit parts of the Eastern Interconnection.
In a statement on Monday, the power grid operator shared that the alert was a precautionary measure, with power output expected to be high due to current weather patterns.
At this time, no customer actions are required.
PJM manages a large electric grid and competitive wholesale electricity market for parts of 13 states and the District of Columbia.
The alert comes as temperatures across the country are expected to soar, including in the Midwest, according to the National Weather Service.
“Today, excessively hot temperatures are expected for much of the Midwest, including the Chicago and Milwaukee Metros,” the NWS shared on X. “If you’re working outside today in these areas, ensure you take plenty of breaks in the shade, and drink plenty of water – even if you don’t feel thirsty.”
A maximum generation alert is issued when conditions might require every generator to operate at maximum output capability to meet energy demands. It also means that additional emergency procedures might be required.
As for this week’s alert, PJM was mainly focusing on owners of transmission and generation equipment who were planning maintenance or testing that could instead be postponed or canceled. This way, the grid operator can ensure all resources are made available.
PJM shared that it is anticipating a peak load of approximately 149,100 megawatts on Tuesday and 151,300 megawatts on Wednesday.
So far, the highest peak load this summer came on July 16 at 153,400 megawatts. Last year’s peak demand was approximately 149,000 megawatts.