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DOE Acts to Ensure Key Coal-fired Power Plants Are Available in MISO to Supply Peak Summer Demands

LCG, May 18, 2026--The U.S. Secretary of Energy today issued an emergency order to address critical grid reliability issues in the Midwest anticipated this summer. The order is in effect beginning on May 19, 2026, through August 16, 2026. The emergency order directs the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), in coordination with Consumers Energy, to ensure that the J.H. Campbell coal-fired power plant (Campbell Plant) in West Olive, Michigan shall take all steps necessary to remain available to operate and to minimize costs for the region.

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EPA Announces Proposed Rule Action to Revise ELG's and Support Reliable, Affordable Coal-fired Power Plants

LCG, May 14, 2026--The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced today that it is proposing a rule to revise wastewater limits, known as effluent limitations guidelines (ELG), for steam electric power plants that will help improve grid reliability and lower electricity prices while continuing to support clean and safe water resources. If finalized, the EPA's proposal is estimated to reduce electricity generation costs by as much as $1.1 billion annually, which could provide cost-savings to American consumers.

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Industry News

FERC’s 12 Percent Reserve Riles Some Californians

LCG, November 20, 2002In an effort to prevent future energy crises, FERC plans to instate a 12 percent reserve requirement, but some utilities say such a move will cost too much.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is considering setting the state energy reserve level at 12 percent as part of a larger effort to prevent events like the California energy crisis of 2000/2001, which landed Northern California utility PG&E in bankruptcy court.

However, some Californian officials object to the proposed measure, saying that forcing utilities to buy extra electricity will result in higher costs, the opposite of the intended effect of preventing high costs.

The California Consumer Power and Conservation Financing Authority asserts that FERC has gone beyond its authority in considering such measures, while representatives from Southern California Edison find minimum reserves necessary but object to FERCs proposal.

Some officials feel that the Independent System Operator should take responsibility for keeping the lights on.

Naturally, utilities will object to any new rules limiting their flexibility; FERC will have to determine whether or not the reserve requirement will be worth its cost to the utilities.

FERC will consider and solidify the reserve issue, as well as other facets of market design, next year.

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