New York's Electric Grid Prepared for Statewide Cold Snap

RENSSELAER, NY (01/17/2025) (readMedia)-- New York's bulk electric system is prepared to meet anticipated demand during a forecasted cold snap from Monday, January 20 through Wednesday, January 22 according to the New York Independent System Operator (NYISO).

"Based on forecasted weather conditions, the NYISO expects an adequate supply of electricity to meet demand through the coming period of cold weather," said Aaron Markham, Vice President of Operations for the New York Independent System Operator.

As of Friday, January 17, the forecasted peak demand during the cold snap is as follows:

  • Monday, January 20: 23,300 megawatts
  • Tuesday, January 21: 24,400 megawatts
  • Wednesday, January 22: 24,200 megawatts

According to NYISO's 2024-2025 Winter Assessment, 29,514 megawatts (MW) of power resources are available to serve load across the state. That analysis also forecasted peak winter demand to reach 23,800 MW. If necessary, NYISO operators can dispatch up to an additional 2,275 MW through emergency operating procedures to maintain reliability during next week's cold snap.

NYISO operators are working closely with power producers, utility companies, and other grid operators in advance of the cold snap to assess the status of generating and transmission capacity.

The all-time record for winter peak demand was 25,738 MW on January 7, 2014.

NYISO operates the bulk electric system under the nation's strictest reliability standards. System reliability requirements are established, maintained, and enforced by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, North American Electric Reliability Corporation, the Northeast Power Coordinating Council, and the New York State Reliability Council.

About the New York ISO

The New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) is a not-for-profit corporation responsible for operating the bulk electricity grid, administering the competitive wholesale electricity markets, conducting comprehensive long-term planning, and advancing the technological infrastructure of the electric system serving the Empire State.