The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has issued an emergency order to address the risk of blackouts in New York and surrounding areas following Winter Storm Fern. The order, made under Section 202(c) of the Federal Power Act, allows the New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) to operate certain power resources beyond environmental or state law limits. This measure aims to stabilize the region’s power grid and reduce costs for residents affected by extreme cold and storm damage.
U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright commented on the situation: “Winter Storm Fern continues to bring extreme cold and dangerous conditions across the country,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright. “Maintaining affordable, reliable, and secure power in the New York 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.”
On his first day in office, President Trump declared a national energy emergency, citing concerns that prior energy policies had left the nation’s grid exposed to increased blackout risks during severe weather events. 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 raised vulnerability to outages. NERC’s 2025–2026 Winter Reliability Assessment warns that many regions face elevated blackout risks when faced with extreme weather.
Data from DOE’s National Laboratories show that power outages cost Americans $44 billion annually. Officials say this emergency order will help minimize such losses in New York by ensuring continued electricity supply during high demand periods brought on by winter storms.
The order will remain in effect from January 26 through February 2, 2026.
According to DOE officials, these actions align with President Trump’s executive orders regarding national energy emergencies and are intended to guarantee enough electricity generation capacity during times of peak demand.
