The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has issued an emergency order to deploy backup generation resources in Texas as Winter Storm Fern brings extreme weather and threatens the state’s power grid. The order, made under Section 202(c) of the Federal Power Act, gives the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) authority to use backup generators at data centers and other key facilities to help prevent blackouts.
The DOE estimates that over 35 gigawatts of unused backup generation are available nationwide. This move aims to help ERCOT manage increased demand and storm-related damage, while also reducing costs for consumers during the winter storm.
Energy Secretary Wright stated, “The Trump administration is committed to unleashing all available power generation needed to keep Americans safe during Winter Storm Fern. Unfortunately, the last administration had the nation on track to lose significant amounts of baseload power, but we are doing everything in our power to reverse those reckless decisions. The Trump administration will continue taking action to ensure that the 35 GW of untapped backup generation that exists across the country can be deployed as needed during Winter Storm Fern and in the future.”
President Trump declared a national energy emergency at the start of his term, citing concerns about grid vulnerability following policies from previous administrations. The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) has reported that winter electricity demand is rising quickly and that closures of coal and natural gas plants have increased risks for outages.
NERC’s 2025–2026 Winter Reliability Assessment warns that several areas in the continental United States face higher risks of blackouts during severe weather events. Specifically for Texas, NERC finds ERCOT is at elevated risk this winter, with above-normal peak demand or outage conditions possibly requiring emergency measures.
According to DOE’s National Laboratories, annual power outages cost Americans $44 billion. The new order is intended to reduce such disruptions in Texas by ensuring more reliable access to electricity.
The emergency order remains effective from January 24 through January 27, 2026.
