PJM has extended a Hot Weather Alert for the entire region PJM serves through Sept. 4 as unusually hot and humid weather continues.
A Hot Weather Alert is a routine procedure PJM issues ahead of forecasted hot weather and/or high humidity to prepare transmission and generation staff and facilities for expected increases in electricity demand, or load.
This procedure does not require any action from customers.
Preliminary and Forecasted Peaks
PJM served the following preliminary hourly integrated peaks:
- Sept. 1: 152,518 MW
- Sept. 2: 141,533 MW
The Sept. 2 peak came in lower than initially forecast due to storms that occurred throughout the region.
As of 4 p.m. on Sept. 3, 2026, PJM is expecting to serve the following approximate peak load of 146,265 MW on Sept. 4.
Additional Actions
PJM has also taken the following proactive measures to prepare for this week’s hot weather:
- PJM requested and received a combined emergency order (PDF), to be effective through Sept. 8, from the U.S. Department of Energy for temporary relief from environmental permit restrictions for generating units and/or to direct backup generation resources at large loads to operate, if required at all.
- On Sept. 1 PJM called a Pre-Emergency Load Management Action in the Pepco, BGE, AEP, Dominion, and ComEd territories.
A dedicated team of operators uses sophisticated technology to balance supply and demand and direct the power grid 24/7 from PJM’s control rooms. They prepare multiple potential scenarios that could be impacted by weather, emergency conditions or equipment failure. They adjust resource output with changes in demand and ensure that no transmission lines or facilities are overloaded. The team also watches for unusual conditions and reacts to them to protect the electricity supply.
Read more about PJM’s emergency procedures and messages (PDF).