ERCOT is actively searching for additional electricity reserves ahead of the winter season to be prepared for any potential emergencies.

ERCOT, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, recently indicated a necessity for 3,000 megawatts in electricity reserves to fortify the state against potential winter emergencies. This measure aims to ensure readiness in case of unforeseen contingencies. To put this into context, a single megawatt (MW) can power approximately 200 homes in Texas during peak demand.

With winter just around the corner, we wanted to make sure Texas is ready. So we turned to ERCOT President and CEO Pablo Vegas to get answers.

In pursuit of this “insurance policy,” ERCOT has outlined two potential strategies.

The first involves reactivating retired or “mothballed” coal-fired power plants. However, this approach poses considerable challenges. According to Vegas, a spokesperson from the agency, restarting these plants is a complex endeavor. Once a plant enters shutdown mode, reviving it to operate safely and reliably becomes increasingly arduous, especially considering that nearly 30% of the state’s fossil fuel-burning thermal generation fleet is over 40 years old. The aging infrastructure, with its myriad 40 to 50-year-old components, further compounds the difficulty in swift reactivation.

ERCOT’s second option, termed “demand response,” relies on businesses curtailing energy consumption when called upon to do so. This approach involves practical measures like controlling thermostats in participating households or businesses, allowing for adjustments during peak energy demand hours. Vegas emphasized that securing 3,000 megawatts through demand response initiatives would also meet the necessary criteria.

Winter’s arrival is imminent, prompting inquiries about Texas’ readiness with the targeted 3,000 MW reserve.

Vegas expressed cautious optimism, highlighting the challenge of swiftly obtaining the full capacity within such a short timeframe. Although hopeful, they indicated that achieving the full 3,000 MW might prove challenging.

One certainty looms: Texans will bear the cost implications. Vegas clarified that consumers shoulder virtually all expenses incurred within the energy market. However, the exact financial impact remains uncertain at present.

Source – https://www.wfaa.com/