PRESS RELEASE | NYISO Updates COVID-19 Demand Impacts
Rensselaer, NY - The New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) today released an updated analysis of estimated COVID-19 demand impacts. Demand is down across the New York Control Area (NYCA), with certain zones experiencing more dramatic drops in load than others.
Demand reductions are largest in the morning, particularly in New York City (referred to in the analysis as Zone J).
- New York City hourly demand for the period of April 6 – April 10, ranged from roughly 2% to 18% below typical levels.
- For weekdays, reductions in electric consumption in New York City averaged 18% below expected during the 8 a.m. hour.
- Meanwhile, NYCA-wide reductions in electric consumption compared to typical demand levels ranged from roughly 1% during the 12 a.m. hour to just under 12% during the 7 a.m. hour.
“Electricity demand across New York State is clearly impacted by COVID-19 related closures,” said Rich Dewey, President and CEO of the NYISO. “Even when normalizing electric consumption data for weather, we have seen daily energy use down by nearly 9% during the second week of April.”
The NYISO also observed the morning peak arriving later in the day. This pattern is similar to what we would observe during a widespread snow day. NYISO forecasters noted the reduction in electric demand from commercial customers is driving the reduction, while also observing an increase in residential energy use, especially during the midday.
The NYISO’s Operations and Demand Forecasting teams continue to monitor and assess changes in electricity demand level and consumption patterns to further refine daily and longer-term demand forecasts. This ongoing assessment includes evaluating demand patterns, updating economic forecasts, and engaging with local utilities.
