The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has extended four emergency orders to help prevent blackouts in the Carolinas and the Mid-Atlantic as another major winter storm approaches. The orders, issued under Section 202(c) of the Federal Power Act, apply to Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC and Duke Energy Progress (collectively known as Duke Energy), as well as PJM Interconnection, LLC (PJM).
Duke Energy and PJM requested that the DOE extend these emergency measures because challenging weather conditions are expected to continue beyond the duration of the original orders, which were first put in place on January 24 and January 26, 2026.
“Winter Storm Fern proves that decisive action by the Trump Administration is crucial to reversing the dangerous energy subtraction agenda of the previous administration,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright. “Those policies weakened the grid and left Americans more vulnerable. We are doing everything in our power to reverse those reckless decisions. The Trump Administration is committed to using every available tool, and unleashing all available power generation, to keep the lights on and Americans safe.”
President Trump declared a national energy emergency at the start of his term, citing concerns about grid vulnerability following policy changes made by his predecessor. According to an assessment from the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), demand for electricity during winter months is increasing rapidly while closures of coal and natural gas plants have reduced reliable supply. NERC’s 2025–2026 Winter Reliability Assessment also indicates that many regions across the continental United States face a higher risk of blackouts during severe weather.
The DOE’s National Laboratories estimate that power outages cost Americans $44 billion each year. By extending these emergency orders, officials aim to reduce outages in affected regions and support efforts for reliable electricity delivery.
The new expiration dates for these emergency orders are as follows: PJM Order 202-26-02A and PJM Order 202-26-06A will remain valid until February 2, 2026 at 11:59 PM ET; Duke Order 202-26-05A and Duke Order 202-26-07A will be effective through February 3, 2026 at noon ET.
These actions follow President Trump’s executive order declaring a national energy emergency with a goal of ensuring enough electricity generation capacity is available during periods of high demand.
