In northern California alone, the current power deficit averages 2, 000 to 3, 000 megawatts per hour, according to the California Independent System Operator, the agency set up to monitor the state's power grid.

CNN: The California power quagmire

Jiangsu is expecting especially severe shortages as the result of an estimated 16% deficit between supply and demand for electric power this summer.

FORBES: China Braces for Blackouts

The U.S., for years burdened with a multi-billion-dollar trade deficit, had no problem because of the power of the dollar.

CNN: LETTERS AND COMMENT