The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has issued an emergency order aimed at stabilizing the power grid in North and South Carolina following disruptions caused by Winter Storm Fern. The order, made under Section 202(c) of the Federal Power Act, grants Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC and Duke Energy Progress permission to operate certain power resources within the Duke Region beyond environmental permit or state law restrictions.
U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright stated, “Winter Storm Fern continues to bring extreme cold and dangerous conditions across the country. Maintaining affordable, reliable, and secure power in the Duke region is non-negotiable. The previous administration’s energy subtraction policies weakened the grid, leaving Americans more vulnerable during events like Winter Storm Fern. Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, we are reversing those failures and using every available tool to keep the lights on and Americans safe following this storm.”
The order follows a national energy emergency declaration by President Trump after concerns that earlier policy decisions had left the grid less resilient. The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) has reported that winter electricity demand is increasing rapidly while closures of coal and natural gas plants have heightened risks of outages during severe weather. NERC’s 2025–2026 Winter Reliability Assessment also indicates elevated blackout risks for several regions during extreme conditions.
According to data from DOE’s National Laboratories, annual power outages cost Americans $44 billion. The emergency measure is intended to reduce such costs and maintain consistent electricity supply in affected areas.
The DOE order will be effective from January 27 through January 30, 2026.
Orders like this one align with President Trump’s Executive Order declaring a national energy emergency and are designed to ensure sufficient electricity generation capacity during periods of high demand.
