The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced an emergency order to safeguard the Southeast U.S. power grid from potential shortfalls and blackouts, as the region grapples with surging electricity demand driven by extreme temperatures.
The order, authorized under Section 202(c) of the Federal Power Act, specifically directs Duke Energy Carolinas to maximize output from its electric generating units.
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U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright emphasized the critical nature of the intervention, stating, “As electricity demand reaches its peak, Americans should not be forced to wonder if their power grid can support their homes and businesses. Under President Trump’s leadership, the Department of Energy will use all tools available to maintain a reliable, affordable, and secure energy system for the American people.”
He added that this order aims to ensure Duke Energy Carolinas can provide consistent and reliable power to its customers during this period of peak summer demand.
The emergency measure, effective from June 24 to June 25, 2025, allows Duke Energy Carolinas to operate designated power plants at their full generation capacity, even if it entails waiving certain federal, state, or local environmental laws and regulations. These waivers, as stipulated by FPA Section 202(c), are temporary and come with limitations to prioritize public safety and interest.
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This action by the DOE’s Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response (CESER) aligns with President Trump’s Executive Order: Declaring a National Energy Emergency, issued on January 20, 2025.
This executive order empowers the administration to take decisive steps to ensure the availability of generation needed to meet high electricity demand and minimize the risk of blackouts, particularly in regions facing energy security challenges.
The DOE continues to monitor grid conditions across the nation and remains committed to ensuring a stable and reliable energy supply for all Americans.
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