The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has issued seven emergency orders to several Florida utilities in response to a period of unusually cold weather that is expected to last into early next week. The orders, authorized under Section 202(c) of the Federal Power Act, were directed at Homestead Public Services Energy, Duke Energy Florida, Orlando Utilities Commission, Florida Municipal Power Agency, and the city of Lakeland on behalf of Lakeland Electric.
These emergency measures allow the utilities to increase electricity generation as needed to maintain grid reliability. In particular, three orders permit certain generating units and backup units within the service areas of Florida Municipal Power Agency, Lakeland Electric, and Orlando Utilities Commission to operate at their maximum output levels regardless of air emissions or other permit restrictions.
U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright said, “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 in January, Secretary Wright had asked grid operators to prepare for possible use of backup generation due to risks posed by extreme weather. DOE estimates indicate that over 35 gigawatts of unused backup generation capacity remain available nationwide.
According to the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), winter electricity demand is rising rapidly while closures of coal and natural gas plants have increased vulnerability to outages. NERC’s 2025–2026 Winter Reliability Assessment warns that many regions across the continental United States face elevated blackout risks during severe weather.
Data from DOE’s National Laboratories show that power outages cost Americans $44 billion annually. The department states these new orders will help reduce outages not only in Florida but also highlight policies aimed at providing affordable and reliable electricity.
The emergency orders take effect immediately and will remain active through early February 2026. Details can be found on DOE’s list of 2026 202(c) Orders.
These actions follow President Trump’s Executive Order declaring a national energy emergency with the goal of ensuring sufficient power generation and reducing blackout risks.
