The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), the nation’s grid watchdog, found that more than half the country is at risk of energy shortfalls under extreme weather conditions this winter. Prolonged cold snaps, freezing temperatures and the retirement of existing always-available power will increase the likelihood of blackouts this winter.

Safe, affordable, reliable energy is essential to American families and businesses, especially during the cold winter months. Voices for Cooperative Power has been educating members on the threats to dependable sources of energy, and this official report emphasizes what we already know: reliable energy is at risk this winter.

The map below outlines which regions of the country are most at risk of rolling blackouts.

NERC’s 2024-2025 Winter Reliability Assessment also warns that demand for power is projected to skyrocket this winter to power heating, transportation systems and new data centers. Keeping up with this demand is becoming more challenging as existing power plants are being taken offline.

Americans deserve safe, reliable and affordable energy year-round. Decision makers need to prioritize smart energy policies that will keep the lights on in our communities, regardless of the weather.