New York is prepared for the gas and electric demands of this summer with a total capacity of 42,056 MW, according to the New York Independent System Operator (NYISO). The summer forecast projects a 32,382 MW peak demand, or with extreme weather conditions, 34,186 MW.

NYISO is required to have reserved energy in the event of the loss of the system’s largest resource. In 2019, the reserve requirement is 2,620 MW. The combination of the peak demand forecast and operating reserve results in a total capacity requirement of 35,002 MW.

“The state’s grid is well-equipped to handle forecasted summer demand,” said Wes Yeomans, NYISO’s vice president of operations. “The NYISO operates the grid to meet reliability rules that are among the strictest in the nation and are designed to ensure adequate supply.”

Further south, New Jersey’s largest utility, Public Service Electric and Gas (PSE&G), has also prepared for summer demands through investing about $2 billion in electric projects and almost $750 million in gas projects since last summer.

Last year, PSE&G delivered 9,978 MW at the peak of summer on Sept. 6. This year, PSE&G’s forecast prepares for a peak of 9,904 MW.

PSE&G will also continue with the Gas System Modernization Program (GSMP II) throughout the summer in neighborhoods across NJ. GSMP II includes upgrading up to 875 miles of aging pipes to durable plastic while making other gas infrastructure improvements through 2023.

“Each year, we strengthen our distribution system so that fewer customers experience outages and, when they do occur, the duration is shorter,” said Jack Bridges, PSE&G vice president of electric operations. “One major effort this year involved adding more smart devices across the state to bolster safety, resiliency and reliability.”

PSE&G is New Jersey’s largest regulated utility. It serves nearly three-quarters of the state’s population.