THREAD: If you're wondering -- here is a map of the @SPPorg service area. Southwest Power Pool is the organization that asked for "controlled interruptions" or rolling blackouts of much of the Midwest today. Power companies in KS and W. Mo. are in this power pool. @kmbc https://twitter.com/SPPorg/status/1361381521630838785

The @SPPorg website looks like its overloaded today. Here are a few fast facts about SPP from a December 2020 screenshot of the org's website.

Again -- from a December 2020 screenshot -- here's a key portion of how @SPPorg helps watch energy in our area. "SPP monitors power flow throughout our footprint and coordinates regional response in emergency situations or blackouts."

@kmbc

Found this @Youtube video from the @SPPorg from 2019 -- to help give you an idea of what services the organization provides. @kmbc

On a @Webex now with @SPPorg. We are going to hear from officials with the Southwest Power Pool. I will do my best to thread any updates here. @kmbc

. @SPPorg is one of seven regional transmission organizations in the U.S. Based in Little Rock, Ark. Started in 1941. SPP is like "air-traffic control" for energy generation. They plan transmission for a 14-state region.

As of 2pm, @SPPorg has restored adequate generation to meet energy needs. The level is back down to a Emergency Alert level 2.

This is good news. But, it's not over.

The first time in the history of SPP (since 1941) they've found themselves in Emergency Alert 2 or 3.

@KMBC

On Thursday of last week @SPPorg "started committing resources" in advance of what happened today, according to an official.

@kmbc

SPP official says they relied on imports. But, the neighboring energy groups started needing more, and they had to stop using those.

Therefore, @SPPorg asked for 641 MW of service to be interrupted. The organization needed 1.5% of percent of peak load to interrupt. @kmbc