2024 06 Texas Power Grid

Power Grid Failures in Texas: Why They Happen & How To Prepare

Summer in Texas brings scorching temperatures, and with it, the challenge of keeping the power on.

As heatwaves become more frequent, understanding why the Texas power grid struggles during these extreme conditions and knowing how to prepare your home for potential outages is crucial. Here’s what you need to know about our power grid issues and practical steps you can take to stay cool and safe.

Texas’ Unique Power Grid

Texas stands apart from the rest of the United States with its own independent power grid managed by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT). This independence, rooted in a historical desire to avoid federal regulation, allows Texas to manage its own energy resources.

However, this self-reliance also means Texas can’t easily borrow power from other states during emergencies, leaving it vulnerable during extreme weather events.

Why Heatwaves Cause Grid Failures

When temperatures soar, so does the demand for electricity, as air conditioners work overtime to cool homes and businesses. This spike in usage can push the grid beyond its limits, particularly if power generation can’t keep pace with the demand.

The very top of a power pole, with wires coming and going from the equipment.

To make matters worse, much of the state’s power infrastructure, including natural gas plants, coal plants, and transmission lines, is aging and less reliable under stress. Decades-old systems are more prone to breakdowns, especially during peak usage periods.

The lack of regular maintenance and investment in upgrades has only worsened the situation.

Texas relies heavily on natural gas for electricity, accounting for over half of the state’s power supply. While dependable, natural gas plants can fail during extreme heat, reducing available power.

Wind power, which contributes around 25% of the state’s electricity, is less effective during the hot, still days of summer when wind speeds are low.

Years of underinvestment in grid maintenance and upgrades have left Texas with a fragile system. Regular maintenance and infrastructure improvements are crucial to prevent outages. However, the state often neglects the preventive steps, making the grid susceptible to failure.

Looking Ahead

Following the devastating winter storm in February 2021, Texas implemented new weatherization standards and ERCOT made operational changes to hold more thermal power in reserve.

Despite these improvements, the grid still experiences frequent failures, especially during extreme summer and winter temperatures. Increased load during these periods often leads to more outages, demonstrating the need for continued investment and upgrades.

Rapid population growth in cities like Austin, Houston, and Dallas has increased the overall demand for electricity. Modern homes, filled with energy-hungry gadgets and appliances, further strain the grid, making it harder to maintain reliable power during peak periods.

Thermal power is a viable option for adding power to the grid. However, building new thermal power plants requires significant investment, and current market incentives are insufficient to encourage this.

Ways a Homeowner Can Prepare

While Texas works on long-term solutions, homeowners can take steps to prepare for power outages and reduce their energy consumption.

Preparing for Outages

  • Backup Power: Investing in a generator or battery backup system can provide peace of mind during outages. Ensure these systems are well-maintained and ready to use.
  • Stock Essentials: Keep a supply of non-perishable food, water, medications, and other necessities to stay comfortable and safe during an outage.
  • Emergency Plan: Develop a plan that includes communication strategies, safety procedures, and contingency plans for family members and pets.

Reducing Energy Consumption

  • Energy-Efficient Appliances: Use energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting to lower electricity use. These devices consume less power, reducing strain on the grid and saving you money.
  • Smart Thermostat Settings: Optimize your thermostat settings to save energy. Set it a few degrees higher when you’re not home or at night. Smart thermostats can adjust settings based on your habits.
  • Natural Ventilation and Shading: Utilize natural ventilation and shading to keep your home cool. Close blinds or curtains during the hottest part of the day and use fans to circulate air.
  • Off-Peak Energy Use: Schedule high-energy tasks like laundry or dishwashing during off-peak hours when grid demand is lower. This helps reduce strain on the grid and can save money if your utility offers time-of-use rates.

Smart Home Technology

  • Smart Devices: Invest in smart home devices to monitor and manage energy use. Smart thermostats, plugs, and energy monitoring systems provide real-time data to help you make informed decisions.
  • Optimize Devices: Set up smart home devices to maximize energy efficiency. Program your smart thermostat to adjust temperatures based on your schedule. Use smart plugs to control when appliances are on or off.

Long-Term Strategies

  • Home Insulation: Improve your home’s insulation to reduce cooling needs. Proper insulation keeps cool and hot air out, making your home more energy-efficient.
  • Renewable Energy: Explore renewable energy options like solar panels. Solar power provides a reliable electricity source and reduces dependence on the grid.
  • Demand-Response Programs: Participate in demand-response programs offered by local utilities. These programs incentivize you to reduce energy use during peak times, helping balance the grid.
Power lines coming towards the camera from several towers in the distance

Final Thoughts

Understanding why the Texas power grid fails during heatwaves is essential for finding solutions. While the state works on improving infrastructure and regulations, homeowners can take proactive steps to prepare for outages and reduce energy consumption.

By investing in energy-efficient technologies, creating emergency plans, and participating in demand-response programs, we can all contribute to a more resilient and reliable power grid.

Call American Heritage Air if you feel your home’s HVAC is putting unnecessary strain on the grid (as well as your budget). We can help find ways to improve efficiency and make the summer time easier to enjoy.

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