An emergency order is now in effect across much of the Mid-Atlantic to help prevent power outages during a period of unusually high electricity demand.
The U.S. Department of Energy issued the order for the PJM power grid, effective October 13th through October 16th.
The order includes Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia and Pennsylvania, along with several other states and the District of Columbia.
Officials say warmer-than-normal October temperatures are increasing demand for electricity at the same time many power plants and transmission facilities are undergoing scheduled maintenance.
The order gives PJM additional authority to bring certain generators online and use backup power resources if needed to keep the grid reliable.
Officials stress this is a precaution to reduce the risk of blackouts, not a warning that widespread outages are expected.
By: Dianah Gibson
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