The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has issued an emergency order allowing PJM Interconnection, LLC to operate certain power resources in the Mid-Atlantic region beyond typical environmental and state restrictions. The move comes as Winter Storm Fern brings extreme cold and threatens widespread power outages.
The order, made under Section 202(c) of the Federal Power Act, is intended to help PJM manage the increased demand and storm-related challenges, aiming to reduce potential costs for consumers during this period.
“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,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright. “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.”
Following a declaration by President Trump of a national energy emergency on his first day in office, DOE officials referenced recent assessments from the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), which indicate that winter electricity demand is rising quickly while closures of coal and natural gas plants have increased vulnerability to blackouts. NERC’s 2025–2026 Winter Reliability Assessment notes elevated blackout risks across much of the continental United States during severe weather.
Data from DOE’s National Laboratories show that annual power outages cost Americans $44 billion. The department says this emergency order aims to mitigate such losses in the Mid-Atlantic region by ensuring access to electricity remains stable throughout Winter Storm Fern.
The emergency order will be effective from January 25 through January 31, 2026. It aligns with President Trump’s Executive Order declaring a National Energy Emergency, designed to guarantee sufficient generation capacity during periods of high electricity demand.
