Texas weather could spark rolling blackouts, power outages in August, ERCOT report says
The Electric Reliability Council of Texas warns of rolling blackouts in August as temperatures increase statewide. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) has warned of potential rolling blackouts and power outages in August due to rising temperatures and increased energy demand. ERCOT projects a 12% chance of energy reserves falling below 1,500 megawatts in August, leading to rolling blackout. The report also predicted a 16% chance for a grid emergency. The state's projected energy demand is expected to exceed the demand for 69,000 megawatts caused by Winter Storm Uri in 2021, which resulted in over 240 fatalities. Texas officials have implemented laws requiring energy sources, including natural gas wells and wind turbines, to be winterized and have discussed long-term solutions for power, including more nuclear power.
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Following the state's second-hottest summer on record, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas warns of potential rolling blackouts in coming months as temperatures rise and energy demand increases.
In a report released on Friday, ERCOT projected a 12% chance of energy reserves falling below 1,500 megawatts in August, likely triggering rolling blackouts to prevent total collapse. The report also predicted a 16% chance of Texas experiencing a grid emergency.
What is the projected energy demand this summer in Texas?
ERCOT projected a statewide energy demand of 78,000 megawatts in August, nearing the state's projected supply of 83,000 megawatts.
This far supersedes the demand for 69,000 megawatts that led to the devastating statewide power outage caused by Winter Storm Uri in 2021. The event resulted in more than 240 fatalities.
More:Why a new energy trade group is pushing Texas to strengthen its electricity production
How have Texas officials protected the grid?
One of the biggest causes of grid failure in 2021 was a result of weather conditions. Texas officials have since passed laws requiring energy sources, including natural gas wells and wind turbines, to be winterized.
Additionally, the agency and the Public Utility Commission testified before the Committee on State Affairs and discussed long-term solutions for power in Texas, including more nuclear power.
How much of Texas is under ERCOT?
According to the Texas Comptroller Office, 214 of the state's 254 counties are under ERCOT. Parts of the Panhandle, East Texas and El Paso are served by neighboring grids.
Is Texas the only state with its own power grid?
Texas is the only state in the contiguous United States with its own power grid. All other states are served by the eastern and western interconnections.
More:Should Texas be forced to join nation's power grids? Casar, AOC file bill to do just that.