The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has issued an emergency order to address the threat of blackouts in the Mid-Atlantic region during Winter Storm Fern. The order, authorized under Section 202(c) of the Federal Power Act, allows PJM Interconnection, LLC to operate certain power resources without being limited by existing environmental permits or state laws. This measure is intended to help manage extreme cold and storm-related disruptions, as well as reduce energy costs for residents during the winter 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 at the start of his term in response to concerns that prior policies had left the electricity grid more susceptible to outages. The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reported that winter electricity demand has been rising quickly in recent years and noted that shutting down coal and natural gas plants prematurely increases risks for households during severe weather. NERC’s 2025–2026 Winter Reliability Assessment warns that several regions in the continental United States face higher chances of blackouts when faced with extreme conditions.
Power outages result in significant economic impacts across the country each year. Data from DOE’s National Laboratories shows that these outages cost Americans $44 billion annually. The emergency order aims to reduce such losses in the Mid-Atlantic region by ensuring access to reliable electricity supply.
The order will remain effective from January 25 through January 31, 2026.
Orders like this one align with President Trump’s Executive Order declaring a national energy emergency and are designed to guarantee sufficient power generation capacity during periods of high demand or increased risk of outages.
