Power Grid Operators Warn of Electricity Shortages

Electricity Shortage Warnings Grow Across U.S. Power Grid Operators Warn of Electricity Shortages A U.S. energy crisis is emerging and electricity power-grid operators are warning of the potential of rolling blackouts as the summer heat arrives. The peak electric demand period and high temperatures will lead to a shortage of supply, California’s grid operator warned Both the Midwest and Texas operators have also signaled potential electricity shortages for the peak demand summer season, according to the report. “I am concerned about it,” Midcontinent Independent System Operator CEO John Bear told the Journal. “As we move forward, we need to know that when you put a solar panel or a wind turbine up, it’s not the same as a thermal resource.”An increasing reliance on solar and wind energy streams amid a transition from coal, natural gas, and nuclear power plants is leading the concerns. Not only is wind inconsistent, but the large batteries needed to store the power remain under development, the Journal reported. Supply chain woes have exacerbated the large battery shortage.