ERCOT urges power conservation for second day, facing potential ‘emergency operations’
Texas’ electric grid manager is again asking for conservation Friday as it braces for potential “emergency operations” for the second day in a row.
The Electric Reliability Council of Texas is requesting that Texans conserve electricity between 3 and 9 p.m. with the expectation of tight grid conditions Friday afternoon and evening. The conditions may continue through the weekend because of extreme heat, and Texas should stay tuned for more communications in the coming days, according to an ERCOT news release.
“Yesterday, ERCOT avoided emergency operations due to the conservation efforts by Texas residents and businesses, combined with timely rainfall in the Houston area, improved wind conditions, and additional grid reliability tools,” the news release reads.
As of about 1 p.m., the grid was operating under normal conditions. Forecasts show emergency operations may be needed in the evening if wind-power generation is low as expected and high demand, according to ERCOT.
They are also asking government agencies to reduce electricity use at their offices and other facilities.
Ways to conserve energy include increasing thermostat temperature by a couple degrees, avoiding the use of large appliances and unplugging appliances that aren’t essential.
North Texas will see relief from heat after this weekend. Temperatures will be in the 90s for several days, with lows in the 60s in some parts of the Metroplex.
This story was originally published August 25, 2023 at 1:24 PM.
