Another heat wave is blasting Oklahoma with temperatures to reach more than 100 degrees this week, bringing a return of the kind of weather that hit the state a few weeks ago.
The expected demand for electricity prompted the Southwest Power Pool, the controlling grid operator, to issue an Energy Emergency Alert Level 2 (EEA2) for its West Balancing Authority Area (BAA) which includes Oklahoma and other midwestern states, effective until further notice as of Friday, July 24, 2026 at 8:04 p.m. The declaration of an EEA2 does not indicate that SPP is directing controlled service outages. Individuals should contact their local utility for details specific to their area.
An EEA2 is triggered when SPP has committed all available generation, can maintain operating reserves, but has begun to use demand-side management (curtailing interruptible loads) to keep region-wide electric supply and demand in balance.
No controlled service interruptions (load shed) are being directed at this time.
Utilities are preparing for the expected increased demand on electricity and Public Service Company of Oklahoma said it wants customers to know that the company is prepared to continue providing safe and reliable electric service while helping customers stay safe and comfortable.
PSO monitors weather conditions year-round and prepares for extreme weather long
before temperatures rise. The company conducts regular emergency response drills,
closely monitors system conditions, maintains and upgrades electric infrastructure, and
positions crews and resources across its service territory to respond quickly if needed.
“Extreme heat is part of life in Oklahoma, and preparing for it is part of what we do every
day,” said PSO President and COO Leigh Anne Strahler. “Our teams are closely
monitoring forecasts and system conditions, and we are ready to provide reliable
service for our customers throughout this hot weather period.”
High temperatures often lead to increased electricity use as homes and businesses
work harder to stay cool. PSO and regional grid operators continuously monitor
electricity supply and demand and have plans in place to respond to changing
conditions. While PSO focuses on keeping the lights on, the company also encourages customers
to take steps to protect themselves, their families, and neighbors from heat-related
illnesses.
Optimizing Your Energy Use according to PSO
Customers can also take simple steps to stay comfortable while managing energy use:
• Close blinds and curtains during the hottest hours of the day.
• Make sure air-conditioning vents are clear and unobstructed.
• Delay using large appliances such as dishwashers, clothes dryers, and ovens
until cooler evening hours when possible.
• Use ceiling fans to help circulate air.
Customers can also monitor their energy use through their online account or the PSO
mobile app and explore programs designed to help manage energy costs.
As Oklahoma enters another stretch of summer heat, PSO remains focused on safely
delivering reliable power while encouraging customers to make heat safety a priority.
For outage information, account management tools, and additional energy-saving
resources, visit PSOklahoma.com.
