January 26, 2026 - The recent arctic blast over the weekend has subjected a significant portion of the U.S. power grid to a stress test, highlighting the increasing risks to the reliability of electric power. Americans can be thankful that the Biden administration did not manage to enforce the closure of all coal plants.

In November, the North American Electric Reliability Corporation cautioned that "extreme winter conditions spanning a large area could lead to electricity supply shortages." This prediction came to fruition. The frigid temperatures heightened demand in regions where electricity is primarily used for heating, particularly in Texas.

In the Northeast and Midwest, where a larger number of residents rely on natural gas for heating, there was a reduced availability of fuel for power generation. Coupled with weather-induced plant outages, this situation created the perfect storm for a grid emergency. Grid operators, utility companies, and the Trump Energy Department had to take extensive measures to ensure that tens of millions of Americans had access to electricity and heating.

On Saturday, utilities in the Midwest advised customers to lower their thermostats, disconnect "nonessential appliances," and adjust the temperature settings on electric water heaters. One can only hope that you find enjoyment in lukewarm showers while bundled up in a heavy coat with a book.

Additionally, the Energy Department suspended emissions regulations to allow fossil-fuel plants to operate at full capacity. By early Sunday morning, coal was responsible for approximately 40% of the power in the Midwest’s MISO grid, 24% in the eastern U.S. PJM Interconnection, and 18% in Texas, with the remainder primarily generated from natural gas and nuclear sources.

New York’s restrictions on gas pipelines have limited the fuel supply for power plants throughout New England. Consequently, power plants in this region had to turn to oil, which constituted 40% of electricity during peak demand periods. Interestingly, the region produced more energy from burning wood and waste than from wind power.

Proponents of climate initiatives assert that solar, wind, and battery technologies can supplant fossil fuels; however, these renewable sources provided minimal power in most areas over the weekend. Wind and solar energy are not dependable during adverse weather conditions.