New England expected to have adequate electricity supply this winter
New England should have adequate electricity supplies this winter under both mild and moderate weather conditions, according to ISO New England, the operator of the region’s electric grid ISO.
However, ISO New England does caution that prolonged periods of very cold weather could pose power system reliability risks. Nonetheless, ISO New England said it will use procedures and plans, including a rolling three-week energy supply forecast, to mitigate these conditions should they materialize.
“Based on seasonal weather forecasts and information provided by generators about their fuel arrangements, the region’s power system is prepared for mild and moderate weather conditions,” Gordon van Welie, ISO New England’s president and CEO, said. “If long periods of severely cold weather develop, we’ll lean on our forecasting tools to identify potential problems early enough to take proactive measures, such as calling for increased fuel deliveries or
asking for public conservation.”
ISO New England anticipates demand for electricity will peak at 20,009 megawatts (MW) during average winter weather conditions of 10°F and 20,695 MW if temperatures reach below-average conditions of 5°F. These projections are approximately 2 percent higher than last year’s forecasts. For perspective, last winter’s demand peaked at 19,756 MW on Jan. 11, 2022, when temperatures averaged 10°F. New England’s all-time winter peak record was set during a January 2004 cold snap when electricity usage reached 22,818 MW.
In terms of prices, the organization said that increased global demand for LNG in response to the war in Ukraine has created more volatility this winter, leading to higher prices. The impact on residential electricity supply rates can vary based on a utility’s service territory, procurement practices, and state rules.
“Preparing for any season requires coordination,” van Welie said. “By working together in advance, the ISO, the utilities, the energy industry, and government officials can ensure we’re all on the same page should challenging conditions materialize.”
