Record-breaking temperatures caused strained power grids across the nation last week leading to the TVA supplying more power than at any time in history. 

The TVA issued a statement on Wednesday taking accountability for the rolling blackouts that happened last week. In the statement, the TVA said it never wants to impact anyone’s energy at any time and that this was not the way it wants to serve customers. A thorough investigation is being conducted to review what happened and why.

According to the TVA, during the 24-hour period on Friday, Dec. 23, more power was supplied than at any other time in its nearly 90-year history. This event produced the highest winter power peak in TVA history. This was also the first time in the TVA’s 90-year history that it had to direct targeted load curtailments due to extreme power demand. 

On Friday. Dec. 23, a five percent system-wide power consumption reduction for two hours and 15 minutes took place and on Saturday, Dec. 24, a system-wide power consumption reduction in five to 10 percent curtailments was in place for five hours and 40 minutes.  

The TVA reports that most local power companies were able to target power reductions that only impacted customers for relatively short durations. TVA officials say they will learn from this unprecedented event and are committed to providing the reliable service customers expect and deserve.