Snow, Bitter Cold, and Extended Low Temperatures Could Stress Energy Systems Across Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) is urging consumers across the Commonwealth to prepare for Winter Storm Fern, which is expected to move across Pennsylvania Saturday into Sunday, bringing several inches of snow to much of the state and dangerously cold temperatures.

Forecasts also indicate that extreme cold is likely to persist through next week, which could increase energy demand and place additional stress on power generation resources, the electric grid, and natural gas systems.

“Winter Storm Fern is expected to deliver both snowfall and extremely cold air, followed by a prolonged period of bitterly cold temperatures next week,” said Steve DeFrank, Chairman of the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission. “This combination can place added strain on energy systems, which is why the Commission is in close and ongoing communication with utilities and PJM. While no specific actions are being requested of consumers at this time, preparation and awareness ahead of the storm are important as conditions develop.”

The PUC is maintaining enhanced communication with jurisdictional electric and natural gas utilities across Pennsylvania and monitoring the preparations and actions of PJM Interconnection, the regional electric grid operator, to ensure readiness as the storm approaches and conditions evolve.
 

Monitoring Conditions and Coordinating Ahead of the Storm

As part of its severe-weather preparedness efforts, the PUC is:

• Maintaining regular communication with electric and natural gas utilities statewide.
• Closely monitoring PJM’s preparations and actions regarding regional grid conditions by participating in PJM stakeholder operational briefings and calls.
• Monitoring forecasts, PJM operational and emergency procedure notifications, and utility readiness as the storm approaches
• Working with partner state agencies as needed to support situational awareness.

The Commission will continue to monitor conditions closely and will provide additional information if circumstances change.

Pre-Storm Safety and Preparedness Tips

Ahead of the storm, the PUC encourages consumers to take simple, common-sense steps to be prepared:

• Stay informed by monitoring weather forecasts and trusted local information sources.
• Charge essential devices such as cell phones and medical equipment.
• Have basic supplies on hand, including flashlights, batteries, and necessary medications.
• Use caution around utility infrastructure and always assume downed power lines are energized.
• Allow space for utility crews if travel is necessary during or after the storm.

Consumers are encouraged to stay tuned to updates from their local utilities, emergency management agencies, and the PUC as Winter Storm Fern moves through the region.

About the PUC

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

Visit the PUC’s website at puc.pa.gov for recent news releases and video of select proceedings.