Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has issued an emergency order directing Southwest Power Pool, Inc. (SPP) to operate backup generation as needed to maintain grid reliability during a regional energy emergency caused by hot weather. The order permits SPP to use backup resources before or during an Energy Emergency Alert 3 as a last resort to prevent blackouts.
DOE Secretary Chris Wright stated that the administration is leveraging over 35 gigawatts of unused backup generation nationwide to ensure affordable and reliable power for American homes and businesses. The order highlights efforts to enhance grid security amid increased vulnerability attributed to previous energy policies, according to the statement.
The order took effect July 20, 2026, and will expire at 11:59 PM ET on July 21, 2026. It was issued following a request from the Southwest Power Pool to address the energy emergency linked to hot weather.
According to DOE data cited in the statement, power outages cost Americans about $44 billion annually. The order aims to reduce the risk of outages in the region during this period.