US Department of Energy power generation order

The US Department of Energy (DOE) recently determined that an electric emergency exists in California, and authorized the Balancing Authority of Northern California (BANC) to operate specific electric generating resources at their maximum output levels to preserve reliability of the power grid due to ongoing extreme heat and persistent drought.

The order authorizes access of generation otherwise constrained by federal air permit limits, but only when all other available means of getting supply have been exhausted. It allows BANC to call on the following power generating resources in an emergency between the hours of 2 p.m. and 10 p.m. through Sept 8, 2022:

NTT Global Data Centers America CA2 in Sacramento

BANC requested the emergency order to access additional generation during times of extreme stress on the power grid during a time when California is expected to experience prolonged excessive heat, which increases electricity demand, and prolonged drought conditions that are impacting availability of hydroelectric supplies.

The order also directly supports Gov. Gavin Newsom’s Aug. 31 emergency proclamation to temporarily increase energy production and reduce demand for electricity.

For more information, visit the DOE website to view the request and order.

BANC is a joint powers authority between Modesto Irrigation District, City of Redding, City of Roseville, Sacramento Municipal Utility District, City of Shasta Lake and Trinity Public Utilities District and operates as a regional power balancing authority registered with the North American Electric Reliability Corporation.