PJM braces for peak demand record as heat wave tests grid operator

PJM Interconnection anticipates Thursday demand could exceed its 2006 summer record of 165,563 MW, with the grid operator authorized to curtail large loads including data centers as a contingency.

First covered Jul 2, 2026 · 7:04 AM PT · 1 article · no longer in the live window

Coverage

46d Utility Dive PJM anticipates new peak demand record as heat wave tests power grid — PJM says Thursday’s demand could break its 2006 summer hourly integrated record peak of 165,563 MW.

Primary sources

energy.gov Pjm 202C Application Exhibit Updated Jun 30 2026 431 Pm Et 202 26 32 (energy.gov)

weather.gov National Weather Service

Related coverage

46d Utility Dive PJM stakeholders advance data center backstop procurement plan

More coverage from around the web

electricchoice.com PJM Emergency Orders: Heat Wave Threatens Record Demand (2026) — Electric Choice

marylandmatters.org Amid high heat, power demand in PJM territory could set records - Maryland Matters

insidelines.pjm.com PJM’s Updated 20-Year Forecast Continues To See Significant Long-Term Load Growth | PJM Inside Lines

bloomberg.com US Declares Power Emergency for PJM Grid as Heat Wave Threatens Record Demand - Bloomberg

thedailyrecord.com Warnings galore as power grid serving MD braces for heatwave, record demand

Appeared in: 2026-07-03 (#6)

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