2026.01.26 | PJM Grid Emergency: AI Load, 21GW Outages & The DOE Pivot episode artwork

EPISODE · Jan 26, 2026 · 5 MIN

2026.01.26 | PJM Grid Emergency: AI Load, 21GW Outages & The DOE Pivot

from Current Events - The Electric Utility Today · host Edmundo Rodriguez

PJM faced a staggering 21 gigawatts of forced outages this weekend as gas-electric coordination failures collided with Winter Storm Fern. We break down why real-time prices in Data Center Alley screamed past $1,800 per MWh and analyze the Department of Energy’s massive pivot to "Energy Dominance Financing". Plus, we discuss ComEd’s revelation that data centers now drive 47% of new substation demand and what El Paso Electric's new gas plant means for the race for reliability. Tune in for a fact-based review of the widening gap between grid infrastructure and the surging reality of AI load.

PJM faced a staggering 21 gigawatts of forced outages this weekend as gas-electric coordination failures collided with Winter Storm Fern. We break down why real-time prices in Data Center Alley screamed past $1,800 per MWh and analyze the Department of Energy’s massive pivot to "Energy Dominance Financing". Plus, we discuss ComEd’s revelation that data centers now drive 47% of new substation demand and what El Paso Electric's new gas plant means for the race for reliability. Tune in for a fact-based review of the widening gap between grid infrastructure and the surging reality of AI load.

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2026.01.26 | PJM Grid Emergency: AI Load, 21GW Outages & The DOE Pivot

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This episode was published on January 26, 2026.

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PJM faced a staggering 21 gigawatts of forced outages this weekend as gas-electric coordination failures collided with Winter Storm Fern. We break down why real-time prices in Data Center Alley screamed past $1,800 per MWh and analyze the Department...

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