Utility Dive•14 days ago
PJM anticipates new peak demand record as heat wave tests power grid
Key Takeaway
PJM's record peak demand and approved curtailment of large loads like data centers highlight increasing grid fragility and the urgent need for new capacity and robust demand-side management strategies.
AI Summary
- •PJM anticipates breaking its 2006 summer peak demand record of 165,563 MW due to an ongoing heat wave, signaling extreme grid stress.
- •PJM has secured approval to curtail data centers and other large industrial loads as a 'last resort,' indicating a high risk of operational disruption and potential for increased energy costs for these consumers.
- •The impending record demand underscores the critical need for new, reliable capacity and demand-side management solutions within the PJM footprint.
Topics
capacity-marketdatacenterpjmpolicytransmission
Article Content
PJM says Thursday’s demand could break its 2006 summer hourly integrated record peak of 165,563 MW. The grid operator has recieved approval to curtail data centers and other large loads “as a last resort.”