U.S. Department of Energy extends Puerto Rico grid emergency orders

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has renewed two emergency orders for Puerto Rico’s electric grid, extending the mandate through November 7, 2026. Issued under Section 202(c) of the Federal Power Act, the orders direct the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA) to maintain critical generation capacity and clear vegetation from power lines.

The renewal aims to address rising electricity demand and mitigate risks posed by an active hurricane season, where overgrown vegetation can damage transmission infrastructure and cause widespread outages. Since the original orders were issued in May 2025, nearly 1,600 megawatts of generation capacity have been restored or refurbished, and federal vegetation clearing projects have increased from five to 33.

Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Puerto Rico Governor Jenniffer González-Colón confirmed the extension, noting its importance for grid reliability and meeting the island's growing energy needs.