# Record heat drives electricity demand to dangerous levels, grid prepares emergency measures

An extreme heatwave is driving record electricity demand on America's largest power grid, PJM Interconnection, forcing operators to prepare emergency measures to prevent blackouts. The situation threatens widespread power outages across multiple states, highlighting the growing strain on aging infrastructure from climate change. This matters because it signals increased risk of energy shortages during extreme weather events.

**Importance:** 4/5

## Sources

### Business
- [Fox News Business](https://www.foxbusiness.com/energy/extreme-heat-drives-record-demand-threat-americas-largest-grid-prepares-emergency-measures) — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 16:50:26 GMT