During a load management event, utilities seek help from customers who can reduce their loads or provide extra power with microgrids or other equipment. The storm presented a unique set of challenges, said Phipps. During a hurricane, the hot weather temperatures will cool down enough so little load management is required. This allows PowerSecure to focus on utility power outages and keep customers up to date with information about outages. But during winter storms, the situation can be dicey. The national grid was in peril Christmas week for numerous reasons. A few utilities proactively shut down wind turbines to prevent damage from high winds. In addition, heavy snow and cloudy weather undermined solar output. The lack of wind and solar contributed to utilities calling for demand response load management events, said Phipps.