Electric Reliability Council of Texas’s system has predicted tense conditions, including possible demand exceeding currently available power this evening, and they could activate emergency conditions as soon as tonight.
Earlier today, the CEO of Texas’ Electric Reliability Council of Texas announced the natural gas to power plants’ supplies are limited and expects record-electric usage during the winter storms headed toward the area. The ERCOT’s grid condition alert system is in “Conservation Alert” as unusually high power-consumption is underway.
The organization asks consumers and businesses to lower electricity use as much as possible between today to Tuesday.
“We are experiencing record-breaking electric demand due to the extreme cold temperatures that have gripped Texas,” said ERCOT President and CEO Bill Magness in a press release. “At the same time, we are dealing with higher-than-normal generation outages. We are asking Texans to take some simple, safe steps to lower their energy use during this time.”
The ERCOT offers these tips to help reduce electricity use:
- Turn down thermostats to 68-degrees.
- Close shades and blinds to reduce the amount of heat lost through windows.
- Turn off and unplug non-essential lights and appliances.
- Avoid using large appliances (i.e., ovens, washing machines, etc.).
- Businesses should minimize the use of electric lighting and electricity-consuming equipment as much as possible.
- Large consumers of electricity should consider shutting down or reducing non-essential production processes.
“Texas should heed the guidance of their local leaders and stay alert to changing weather conditions in their area,” said state Governor Greg Abbott. “These resources will help us respond to this severe winter weather and keep our communities safe. The State of Texas remains in close contact with officials on the ground and will provide any additional resources and support that are needed.”
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