The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has issued an emergency order to help prevent blackouts in the Mid-Atlantic region during Winter Storm Fern. The order, which is authorized under Section 202(c) of the Federal Power Act, allows PJM Interconnection, LLC (PJM) to operate certain power resources regardless of environmental or state restrictions. This measure aims to address challenges posed by extreme cold and storm damage in the area.
U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright stated, “As Winter Storm Fern brings extreme cold and dangerous conditions to the Mid-Atlantic, maintaining affordable, reliable, and secure power in the PJM region is non-negotiable. The previous administration’s energy subtraction policies weakened the grid, leaving Americans more vulnerable during events like Winter Storm Fern. Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, we are reversing those failures and using every available tool to keep the lights on and Americans safe through this storm.”
The DOE noted that President Trump declared a national energy emergency at the start of his term due to concerns about grid vulnerability following earlier policy changes. The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) has reported a rapid increase in winter electricity demand and warned that early closures of coal and natural gas plants have increased risks for outages during severe weather. NERC’s 2025–2026 Winter Reliability Assessment indicates that parts of the continental United States face higher chances of blackouts when extreme weather hits.
According to data from DOE’s National Laboratories, power outages cost Americans $44 billion annually. The new order is intended to reduce such costs by ensuring continued access to electricity during critical periods.
The emergency order will remain in effect from January 25 through January 31, 2026.
The DOE clarified that orders like this follow President Trump’s Executive Order declaring a National Energy Emergency and are designed to ensure enough generation capacity is available when demand spikes or blackout risks rise.
