The New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) today released an analysis of estimated COVID-19 demand impacts. Demand is down across the New York Control Area (NYCA), with certain zones experiencing more dramatic drops in load than others.
Demand reductions are largest in the morning, particularly in New York City (referred to in the analysis as Zone J). For weekdays during the period of March 30 – April 3, reductions in electric consumption in New York City approached 18% during the 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. hours. Overall, New York City hourly demand for that week ranged from 2% to 18% below typical demand levels. Meanwhile, NYCA-wide reductions in electric consumption compared to typical demand levels ranged from 1% during the 12 a.m. hour to 12% during the 7 a.m. hour.
“Electricity demand across New York State is clearly impacted by COVID-19 related closures,” said Rich Dewey, President and CEO of the NYISO. “Even when normalizing electric consumption data for weather, we have seen daily energy use down by nearly 8% during the last two weeks of March and into the first week of April.”
The NYISO also observed the morning peak arriving later in the day. This pattern is similar to what we would observe during a widespread snow day. NYISO forecasters noted the reduction in electric demand from commercial customers is driving the reduction, while also observing an increase in residential energy use, especially during the midday.
The NYISO’s Operations and Demand Forecasting teams continue to monitor and assess changes in electricity demand level and consumption patterns to further refine daily and longer-term demand forecasts. This ongoing assessment includes evaluating demand patterns, updating economic forecasts, and engaging with local utilities.
The NYISO is a not-for-profit corporation responsible for operating the state’s bulk electricity grid, administering New York’s competitive wholesale electricity markets, conducting comprehensive long-term planning for the state’s electric power system, and advancing the technological infrastructure of the electric system serving the Empire State.
