Well-documented natural gas pipeline constraints,coupled with global supply chain issues related to deliveries of oil and liquefied natural gas(LNG),are placing New England's power system at heightened risk heading into the winter season,according to ISO New England Inc.,operator of the regions power grid.The ISO expects to have the resources needed to meet consumer demand if the winter is mild,but a severe prolonged cold snap could necessitate emergency actions if power-producing resources lack access to the fuel they need to operate."As we continue our work with the New England states and industry stakeholders to transition to a cleaner grid,the ISO also has to maintain real-time power system reliability,"Gordon van Welie,ISO New England's president and CEO,said in a Dec.6 statement posted on the ISO website."In recent years,oil and LNG have filled the gaps when extended periods of very cold weather have constrained natural gas pipeline supplies.Higher prices globally for these fuels,as well as pandemic-related supply chain challenges,could limit their availability in New England if needed to produce electricity this winter.The region would be in a precarious position if an extended cold snap were to develop and these fuels were not available."
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