The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has issued seven emergency orders to Florida utilities to help prevent blackouts as the state faces a period of unusually cold weather expected to last into early next week. The action was taken under Section 202(c) of the Federal Power Act and applies to Homestead Public Services Energy, Duke Energy Florida, Orlando Utilities Commission, Florida Municipal Power Agency, and Lakeland Electric.
These emergency orders allow the affected utilities to use additional generation capacity if needed to meet electricity demand. Some orders specifically permit certain generating units and backup units in the service areas of Florida Municipal Power Agency, Lakeland Electric, and Orlando Utilities Commission to operate at their full output even if it means exceeding air emissions or other regulatory limits.
U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright stated: “As extreme, prolonged cold hits Florida, maintaining affordable, reliable, and secure power in the region is non-negotiable. The previous administration’s energy subtraction policies weakened the grid, leaving Americans more vulnerable to blackouts and higher electricity prices. Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, we are reversing those failures and using every available tool to keep the lights on and Florida homes heated through this cold snap.”
Earlier correspondence from Secretary Wright urged grid operators to be ready with backup generation during severe weather events. DOE estimates that more than 35 gigawatts of unused backup generation capacity is still available nationwide.
A recent assessment by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) noted that winter electricity demand is increasing rapidly and that shutting down coal and natural gas plants prematurely increases the risk of outages for American families. NERC’s 2025–2026 Winter Reliability Assessment warns that many parts of the continental United States face an increased risk of blackouts during periods of extreme weather.
DOE data indicates that power outages cost Americans $44 billion annually. The department said these emergency measures aim not only to reduce outage risks in Florida but also highlight ongoing efforts by the current administration to maintain reliable electricity supplies.
The emergency orders take effect immediately and will remain active through early February 2026. Details on specific order dates can be found on DOE’s list of 2026 Section 202(c) Orders.
According to DOE, these actions follow President Trump’s Executive Order declaring a national energy emergency and are intended to ensure sufficient electricity generation during critical times while minimizing blackout risks.
