The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has issued an emergency order to help prevent blackouts in the Mid-Atlantic region as Winter Storm Fern brings extreme cold and hazardous conditions. The order, authorized under Section 202(c) of the Federal Power Act, allows PJM Interconnection, LLC (PJM) to operate certain power resources beyond normal environmental permit or state law restrictions. This action is intended to support grid reliability and reduce energy costs for residents during the storm.
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.”
President Trump declared a national energy emergency on his first day in office following concerns about grid vulnerability attributed to earlier policy decisions. Reports from the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) indicate that winter electricity demand is rising quickly while closures of coal and natural gas plants have increased risks for outages. NERC’s 2025–2026 Winter Reliability Assessment warns that large areas across the continental United States face a higher risk of blackouts during severe weather.
Data from DOE’s National Laboratories shows that power outages cost Americans $44 billion annually. The new order aims to limit these losses by supporting continuous electricity supply in affected areas.
The emergency order will remain effective from January 25 through January 31, 2026. According to DOE officials, such orders align with President Trump’s executive actions declaring a national energy emergency and are designed to ensure enough generation capacity meets heightened demand during critical periods.
