Media Statement: Cold weather and near record-breaking demand activates Energy Emergency Alerts in Alberta

Extreme weather affecting the operations of some generation facilities and low wind in the province during near record-breaking demand prompted the AESO to activate our Energy Emergency Alert (EEA) protocol yesterday evening (Jan. 13, 2020). EEA is a zero-3 tiered alert system with established protocols and processes to balance supply and demand (zero is normal conditions). At 5:18 p.m. we declared EEA 1 followed by  EEA 2 at 7:15 p.m. At both EEA 1 and 2 all power needs in the province continue to be met, but we are using reserves. At EEA 3, we anticipate the need to curtail load (meaning some power will be lost in parts of the province until enough generation returns to the grid or power usage reduces to a point where we can balance supply and demand once again). With the cold weather expected to continue over the new few days, the AESO is closely monitoring the system and will notify Albertans if grid conditions worsen. In the meantime, Albertans can help by reducing their use of major appliances and other electricity conservation tips on our website.

 https://www.aeso.ca/aeso/electricity-in-alberta/electricity-conservation-tips/