Electricity Shortages Looming In Texas: How To Prepare
While a hot dry summer causes many issues, one problem that was possibly not considered has been Texas losing some of its electricity-generating power due to lack of wind. Yes, low wind power generation could cause a potential energy electricity shortage, according to the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT).
The Electric Reliability Council of Texas along with the Public Utility Commission of Texas are both asking that everyone conserve as much energy as possible on a daily basis. ERCOT is asking consumers of larger electric usage to conserve much as possible, especially between the hours of 4 pm to 9 pm when the power grids are in highest demand.
The Fearless Fave Five for cutting back on electrical usage:
- Raise your thermostat by 5 degrees.
- Check and replace weather stripping around doors and windows.
- Turn off lights that do not need to be on.
- Unplug unused appliances, like coffee pots.
- Close window blinds, keeping the hot sunlight out.
ERCOT made it very clear that they are not experiencing issues at this time. However, they are considering future forecasts that show a potential to enter into emergency operations during low wind and low solar generation periods.
Conservation is a widely used industry tool that can help lower the demand for power during those specific peak times throughout the day, throughout the week, and throughout peak seasons.
PUCT and ERCOT are requesting all government agencies (including city and county offices) to implement all programs to reduce energy use at their governmental facilities.
ERCOT says" If you are experiencing an outage at this time, it's local in nature and not related to overall grid reliability. Please check with your local electric provider for more information. If you need further assistance, you can contact the PUCT’s Customer Protection Division by calling 1-888-782-8477 or emailing customer@puc.texas.gov.
Why is ERCOT asking us to reduce power usage? It's simple - the continued statewide extreme heat temps cause us to use more electricity, and the wind generation forecast is predicted to be lower this time of year.
Remember to stay informed by signing up for TXANS notifications on the TXANS website and subscribe to ERCOT Emergency Alerts. If you have any questions, contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas Hotline at 1-888-782-8477. Stay cool, Texas.