Champaign Voices

Electric Grid Operators Warn Summer Demand Could Outpace 'Hopes and Prayers'

Published: June 27, 2026

Utilities cautioned that heat waves and data centers are stressing power systems, politely asking Americans to consider not running every appliance at 5 p.m. What do you think?

“I'll unplug the toaster when the server farms unplug first.”

“My plan is diesel and denial.”

“We already do laundry at 9 p.m. like criminals.”