We all expect the lights to turn on when we flip the switch. But today, many of us also expect to video call into a work meeting or check in with friends and family, cook dinner on electric stoves, and charge our cars, tools and devices.

Electricity powers nearly every part of our lives, shaping how we live, learn, work, and travel. And demand for it is growing faster than ever.

Across the Upper Midwest, forecasts show that electricity use could nearly double by 2050, as homes, businesses, and entire industries adopt more electric technologies in our everyday lives. Meeting that demand isn’t just about generating more power, it’s about making sure it can get where it’s needed, when it’s needed.

As utilities make investments in a more modern and efficient energy system, we’re also working to make sure we balance different energy technologies so we can provide reliable power all year long, no matter the weather or the time of year.

Renewable energy is playing a larger role than ever before, helping reduce costs and emissions. But as we continue this transition, natural gas remains a practical and flexible tool that helps keep the grid stable, especially during periods of extreme weather and high energy use.

Reliability is the foundation of our work. From deep freezes in February to scorching days in July, utilities across the Upper Midwest face wide-ranging conditions that put pressure on the grid year-round.

Fortunately, energy technology has come a long way. Newer systems are more efficient, more adaptive, and help households, businesses, and communities take advantage of smarter, more affordable power. Renewables like wind and solar help keep costs down and reduce carbon emissions. But even with their growing role, renewables depend on flexible backup — especially when the sun isn’t shining or the wind isn’t blowing.

Natural gas is a vital, ever-ready source of energy. As part of a broader energy mix that includes wind, solar, and other energy sources, natural gas power plants help maintain grid stability and ensure customers have the power they need when they need it.

These plants can ramp up within minutes during peak energy use or unexpected stress on the system. It’s our pinch hitter, balancing our energy needs and delivering the essential support to our grid as our energy mix changes.

Of course, generation is only one side of the equation. Ensuring reliable electricity also means investing in the infrastructure that connects it all. To deliver power from new generation resources — whether they’re rural wind farms, solar fields, or flexible natural gas plants — we need a transmission system that’s ready for the future.

That’s why utilities across the region are working together to expand and modernize the grid. A stronger transmission network means energy can move where it’s needed most, safely, efficiently, and affordably.

The energy transition is already well underway. As we move forward, natural gas power plants will continue to play an important supporting role in helping us meet rising demand and ensuring reliability every step of the way.

With smart investments, long-term planning, and a deep commitment to the communities we serve, we’re building an energy future that’s balanced, resilient, and ready.

— Jared Graham is site director at Xcel Energy