MISO predicts adequate resources to meet winter demand

The regional grid operator is gearing up for the upcoming winter season with its annual winter outlook. According to MISO, resources are expected to be sufficient to meet expected demand with strong supply margins, but the organization recognizes the potential risks posed by extreme weather events.

“Situational awareness is critical for managing the impact of extreme weather events,” said JT Smith, executive director of market operations at MISO. “Our seasonal readiness workshops involve coordination with our member utilities, key stakeholders and other industry partners to prepare for uncertainty during the winter months.”

The winter weather forecast varies across MISO’s footprint. The North Region, which includes Minnesota and the Dakotas, is expected to see normal temperatures, while the Central and South Regions are projected to experience above-normal temperatures.  January is forecasted to be the warmest winter month for MISO, with higher chances for cold weather events in December and February.

Winter demand could peak at over 107 gigawatts (GW), with 122 GW of supply anticipated to be available under normal grid and generation outage conditions. The all-time winter demand record remains at 109 GW, set on Jan. 6, 2017.

“After 2024’s mild winter and summer, it’s important to not become complacent,” said Great River Energy Vice President and Chief Power Supply Officer Jon Brekke. “Our portfolio of power supply resources includes significant amounts of wind power engineered for cold weather operations. And we back that up with dispatchable natural gas peaking plants that provide reliability needed for the energy demands of our membership.”

Peaking plants are designed to quickly ramp up electricity production when needed, ensuring a stable supply of power.

Flexibility will be important on the coldest winter days, which is why most of Great River Energy’s peaking plans have the ability switch from natural gas to fuel oil. If natural gas supplies become constrained, on-site fuel oil serves as a reliable backup to generate electricity and keep businesses operating and homes safe and warm.

“Whether it’s a hot summer or a frigid winter, all of us at Great River Energy are prepared and ready to ensure our member-owners have the energy they need to serve their communities,” Brekke said.