Energy Secretary Keeps Critical, Coal-Fired Generation Operational Ahead of Winter in the Midwest

WASHINGTON-The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) issued an emergency order to address critical grid reliability issues in the Midwest. The emergency order directs the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), in coordination with Consumers Energy Company, to ensure that the coal-fired J.H. Campbell Generating Plant (Campbell Plant) in West Olive, Michigan, is available to operate and meet emergency needs while employing economic dispatch to minimize costs for hardworking American families and businesses. The Campbell Plant was originally slated to shut down on May 31, 2025, 15 years before the end of its scheduled design life.

"President Trump and the Energy Department remain committed to doing everything in our power to stop power outages for American families and businesses," said U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright. "Ensuring coal plants such as the Campbell Plant are available to operate has prevented blackouts and likely saved lives. Americans deserve access to affordable, reliable, and secure electricity regardless of whether the wind is blowing or the sun is shining."

Thanks to President Trump, coal generating plants across the country are being saved from premature retirement. For example, in 2025, more than 17 gigawatts of coal-fired electricity generation were saved from going offline. During periods of peak electricity demand, many of those plants keep the lights on.

The emergency conditions that led to the issuance of the original order persist. A joint report from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), and NERC's Regional Entities highlights how events that occurred during the Winter 2026 Arctic Cold Period, including Winter Storm Fern, demonstrated the need for dispatchable generation capacity from facilities like the Campbell Plant.

This order is in effect from November 15, 2026, through February 12, 2027.