For more about the heatwave hitting the Midwest 

Extended weather forecasts could aid power grid stability, renewables

A summer of blackouts? Wheezing power grid leaves states at risk.

But while some warn of a dark summer, new technology may help us keep the lights on.

 consists of three main grid systems that provide energy throughout the lower 48 states: Western Interconnect, Eastern Interconnect & Texas Interconnect.

 The majority of Texas has a *mostly* independent grid dating back to the 1930s (due to a tradition of self-reliance and desire to stay free of federal regulation).

These main grids are each divided across different markets, providers and regulations.

: We are connected in many ways, but no single grid links NY to CA.

Drought conditions & high temps leading to more energy usage.

Threat of wildfires, including an anticipated 

"active late-summer wildfire season in the Western United States and Canada" 

 The Midwest's power provider, which services 15 states & some of Canada, is preparing for potential rolling blackouts to conserve energy. Western states are at an 

"Cyber security threats from Russia and other potential actors ..." 

“It’s a soup of things. The grid is transforming. We are putting on a lot of new resources and learning how they behave." 

Jim Robb, chief executive of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC — a nonprofit regulator) on why 2022 is different than past years. Record-breaking heat waves, the retiring of coal plants, & difficulties transporting backup fuel to power plants when wind & solar energy are unable to meet demand (due to no wind or sunshine) have all increased concerns.

“The scientific methods have only just started to be there in the last few years where these forecasts could actually be useful."

Hannah Bloomfield, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Bristol & co-author of a new paper studying long-range weather forecasting technology, found that new tools allow grid operators to prepare for extreme heat & cold up to 3-4 weeks in advance. Traditionally, forecasts have been made just a few days before severe weather occurs.

Energy companies in the Midwest were issued a "Maximum Generation Alert" for Wednesday because of high temperatures & high power usage. The alert was given by the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), one of the main U.S. power grids that services 15 states & part of Canada, and was intended to prepare local electrical agencies to take steps to conserve energy *if* demand got too high.

The alert lasted through Wednesday; however, a "Hot Weather Alert" — intended to

 "prepare operating facilities for extreme weather conditions" 

due to concerns about demand and operating capacity — was extended until Friday.

what to know

Summer blackouts 

For more about the heatwave hitting the Midwest  (The State Journal-Register)

Extended weather forecasts could aid power grid stability, renewables (

Quick. Concise. Nonpartisan.

Emily Hooker