NYISO’s Grid Alert System Keeps New Yorkers Informed
As summer draws near, the NYISO’s grid alert system will be essential for keeping the public informed about operational changes to the bulk electric system.
Rising demand, aging infrastructure, extreme weather and other risk factors are testing the grid like never before. Launched in February 2025, the color-coded system is designed to communicate with New Yorkers when electricity reserves drop below certain thresholds and conservation measures may be necessary.
Last summer, the grid alert system was activated four times as high temperatures stressed the grid.
Understanding the four stages of the NYISO’s grid alert system:
- Normal Grid Conditions. In this stage, adequate supplies of electricity are available to meet demand.
- Energy Watch. In this stage, operating reserves have dropped below 2,620 megawatts (MW) and are not expected to recover for at least 60 minutes. There are adequate resources to meet demand.
- Energy Warning. In this stage, operating reserves have fallen below 1,965 MW which are not expected to recover for at least 30 minutes. Emergency operations may be initiated to maintain system reliability.
- Energy Emergency. In this stage, NYISO has entered into emergency operations as operating reserves have fallen below 1,310 MW and are not expected to recover for at least 30 minutes. Controlled outages may occur.
To learn more about these grid alerts and what New Yorkers can do to help conserve electricity during periods of high demand, visit our System Conditions page. You can also follow us on social media to get updates on the grid.