The energy crisis in the early 2000s highlighted the fragile state of the nation's power infrastructure. High demand quickly outpaced available energy, leaving many people in the dark during the hottest days of the year. The rolling blackouts continued for months in some parts of the country, and many scientists and researchers searched for ways to curtail energy needs in times of emergency—a process referred to as load shedding or demand response. The curtailment saves the power grid from overloading, preventing widespread blackouts and broken equipment that can prolong the crisis.