North America’s Largest Grid Prepares for Peak Power Needs Jan. 27
North America’s Largest Grid Prepares for Peak Power Needs Jan. 27
US · Published Jan 23, 2026
PJM Interconnection, North America's largest power grid, anticipates a record winter electricity demand of 144,465 MW on January 27, surpassing last year's peak.
The surge is driven by an Arctic front causing sub-zero temperatures across 13 states and D.C., combined with the energy demands of AI-driven data centers.
PJM reports sufficient operational capacity of 180,800 MW to meet the demand, ensuring grid reliability during this critical period.
PJM Interconnection anticipates record winter electricity demand
The PJM Interconnection, North America’s largest power grid, is forecast to hit a record winter electricity demand of 144,465 MW on January 27, surpassing last year’s high of 143,700 MW. This surge in demand highlights the increasing reliance on electricity during extreme weather conditions and the growing energy needs of data centers powering artificial intelligence (AI). The grid serves 67 million people across 13 states and the District of Columbia, making its stability crucial for a vast population.
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