Special concerns for summer 2022
Both the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) and Southwest Power Pool (SPP), the organizations that manage the grid that supplies power to Minnesota, are predicting energy shortfalls for the summer of 2022. A combination of factors is contributing to this outlook. Many of the nation’s energy resources, such as older energy generation facilities, have recently retired from service as a result of economic, regulatory and environmental pressures. At the same time, existing power assets that are still in service are aging, making them more prone to unplanned outages and supply disruptions. Furthermore, supply chain issues are making the procurement of crucial fuel sources such as coal and gas more difficult to obtain.
The summer forecast is calling for higher-than-average temperatures in Minnesota and throughout the Midwest. Hot and humid weather is expected to put additional pressure on the already-stressed power grid as people try to keep their homes and businesses cool.