Heat Wave Strains US Power Grid

A significant heat wave is affecting large parts of the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic, with temperatures potentially reaching 115 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the National Weather Service. This extreme heat has led to record-breaking electricity demand in states like Texas, where peak power usage reached 85,559 megawatts. PJM Interconnection, which serves 65 million people across 13 states, issued a Maximum Generation Alert in anticipation of soaring temperatures and increased electricity demand, potentially peaking at 153,400 MW this week. Major cities such as Chicago, New York City, and Philadelphia are also facing record high temperatures, with Chicago expected to hit 97 degrees, breaking August records. The situation poses challenges for the power grid as air conditioning usage surges. Authorities have urged transmission and generation operators to ensure resources are available to meet the heightened demand.