The energy emergency in the Midwest means unplanned power outages may continue for South Dakotans.
“Record energy demand due to the extreme, widespread cold temperatures in the region are forcing extraordinary measures to keep the energy grid stable,” said NorthWestern Energy President and Chief Operating Officer Brian Bird. “NorthWestern Energy and other energy companies in the region are working closely with the Southwest Power Pool, the entity that manages overall grid stability for 14 states including South Dakota, to monitor the situation and take the actions that are needed.”
Those actions may include unplanned outages. Customers may experience power outages if rolling blackouts are implemented to reduce demand. High demand for energy is forecast to continue in the region at least through the afternoon hours of Wednesday, Feb. 17.
NorthWestern Energy and other South Dakota energy providers were directed to reduce demand by dropping some load beginning early in the morning today (Feb. 16, 2021). Some customers experienced unplanned power outages as rolling blackouts were implemented to reduce demand by about 10% to keep the energy grid stable.
“South Dakotans have responded to the call to conserve energy to help reduce demand and we thank all of you for doing your part,” Bird said. “We are asking you to continue and appreciate your patience as we get through this together.”
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