Down-on-their luck power generators are starting to see increased prices for their electricity in connection with the summer heat wave across much of the nation.
The Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported early July 25 that New York City had reported a spot power price of $70.06/MWh, making it the highest-priced organized market in the country.
The normally-temperate Northwest recorded the second-highest spot power price in the nation at $69.00/MWh.
In fact, the EIA data only showed two of the 10 organized markets (Houston and Louisiana) reported spot power prices below $40/MWh.
The EIA price figures reflect select spot prices for delivery on July 25. The picture was much different roughly one month ago. On June 24, EIA reported that Southern California had the highest reported spot power price at $34.23/MWh and the Northwest had the lowest reported spot power price at $14.85/MWh.
The hot weather, and the increased air conditioning use that goes with it, could stick around a while longer. The National Weather Service continues to issue “heat advisories” and warn of “dangerous” levels of heat in much of the nation.
Also many electric utilities and regional grid operators continue to urge conservation by customers in order to reduce the chance of rolling blackouts.
Some of the hot spots for July 25 are forecast to include New York City at 95 degrees; Dallas at 97; Salt Lake City at 99; and Las Vegas at 110 degrees.
