FERC, NERC Say Grid Winter Recommendations Working

AI generated summary

The U.S. electric grid and natural gas system demonstrated resilience during the severe cold weather events of January 2025, according to reports from FERC and NERC. Despite record low temperatures across the Southeast, no major grid incidents or fuel system disruptions were reported. The review highlighted that the U.S. set winter records for electric demand and natural gas consumption, with natural gas accounting for 43% of electric generation during peak hours. Improved communication and coordination among electric and gas industries were noted as key factors in successfully managing the extreme weather.

Preparations prior to the storms included conservative operations and enhanced coordination between gas and electric sectors, which helped mitigate potential issues. While the report acknowledged progress in generator weatherization and operational readiness, it also pointed out that mechanical and electrical outages remain a significant concern. FERC Chair Mark Christie emphasized the importance of these improvements, noting that there were no load sheds during the storms, contrasting with previous winter events. NERC CEO Jim Robb reiterated the need for ongoing efforts to adapt to increasingly frequent extreme weather events.