Demand response is a tool used by PJM to reduce strain on the electric grid during periods of extreme demand.
Because electricity supply and demand must stay in balance at all times, demand response is used when electricity use increases quickly, and there is limited additional power available across the regional grid.
During these periods, PJM may direct utilities to:
- Implement rolling outages, which are controlled power interruptions used only when necessary to protect the regional grid
- Temporarily reduce electricity use across the system
- Issue conservation directives for a limited period of time
These actions are temporary and are used to help maintain grid stability and prevent larger, uncontrolled outages during extreme conditions.