Why is the U.S. power grid so vulnerable during cold snaps?

In five of the past 11 years, parts of the U.S. electrical grid have been hit by blackouts, shut-offs or close calls during cold weather. Experts say one reason is a recurring shortage of natural gas.

In five of the past 11 years, parts of the U.S. electrical grid have been hit by blackouts, shut-offs or close calls during cold weather, according to an NBC News review of federal and state records and internal utility documents, with each major cold snap threatening a grid failure.

Experts say one of the main culprits is a recurring shortage of natural gas, which became the main source of power for the electrical grid in 2016 and will carry more of the burden in coming years. The stress on the gas supply also poses a threat to the 50% or more of U.S. homes that use gas for heat.

Should the natural gas system fail, said Matthew Ketschke, the president of New York-area electrical utility Con Edison, it could take weeks to restore full service.

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/electrical-power-grid-at-risk-cold-weather-blackouts-rcna136917

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