U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright has issued an emergency order aimed at protecting electricity reliability and reducing the risk of power outages across the mid-Atlantic region.
The order, issued under Section 202(c) of the Federal Power Act, allows PJM Interconnection, in coordination with Talen Energy Corporation, to continue operating Unit 4 at the Wagner Generating Station in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, beyond its normal operating limits.
The decision follows a formal request from PJM, the regional grid operator, which told the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) that it expects to need the facility during upcoming periods of high electricity demand. PJM manages a power network serving about 65 million people across 13 states and the District of Columbia.
Wagner Unit 4 had already been used extensively during periods of extreme heat earlier this summer. According to PJM, the unit exhausted its remaining standard operating hours because of the increased demand for electricity. The grid operator warned that without additional operating time, periods of high demand could create electricity shortages and increase the risk of blackouts.
Secretary Wright said that energy shortages affecting millions of Americans are unacceptable. He pointed to previous emergency orders in the region that helped maintain reliable electricity supplies and said the latest action is intended to provide similar support during the coming months.
The Department of Energy said the measure is focused on ensuring reliable and affordable electricity while strengthening energy security during periods of changing weather conditions and power demand. The order provides PJM with additional flexibility to manage potential reliability challenges when electricity consumption rises sharply.
The emergency authorization takes effect on August 20, 2026, and will remain in place through November 17, 2026. During this period, Wagner Unit 4 can be used to support grid stability when required by PJM.
The action highlights the growing importance of maintaining sufficient generation capacity as electricity demand increases. Federal officials expect the temporary measure to help safeguard power supplies for homes, businesses, and other electricity consumers across the mid-Atlantic region.
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