The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has issued seven emergency orders to stabilize Florida’s electrical grid as the state faces an extended period of unusually cold weather. The orders, made under Section 202(c) of the Federal Power Act, were directed to Homestead Public Services Energy, Duke Energy Florida, Orlando Utilities Commission, Florida Municipal Power Agency, and Lakeland Electric.
These emergency measures allow the utilities to use additional power generation only if necessary to maintain grid reliability. Three of the orders specifically permit certain generating units and backup generators within FPMA, Lakeland Electric, and OUC service areas to operate at full capacity, even if this means exceeding emissions or other regulatory limits.
The DOE acted after Secretary of Energy Chris Wright sent a letter on January 22 urging grid operators to be ready to use backup generation if required. According to DOE estimates, more than 35 gigawatts of unused backup generation remain available nationwide.
“As extreme, prolonged cold hits Florida, maintaining affordable, reliable, and secure power in the 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 to blackouts and higher electricity prices. Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, we are reversing those failures and using every available tool to keep the lights on and Florida homes heated through this cold snap.”
On his first day in office, President Trump declared a national energy emergency in response to what he described as vulnerabilities created by earlier energy policies. The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) has reported that winter electricity demand is increasing rapidly while closures of coal and natural gas plants have heightened blackout risks for families across the country. NERC’s 2025–2026 Winter Reliability Assessment warns that many parts of the continental United States face increased chances of blackouts during severe weather events.
According to data from DOE’s National Laboratories, power outages cost Americans $44 billion each year. The department says these new orders are intended not only for Florida but also aim to reduce outages in regions such as the Mid-Atlantic and Carolinas.
The emergency orders take effect immediately and will remain active through early February 2026. Further details can be found on DOE’s list of 2026 202(c) Orders.
These actions align with President Trump’s executive order declaring a national energy emergency and are designed to ensure continued electricity supply while minimizing blackout risks.
