HOUSTON, Texas – If you’ve been living in Texas since 2021 or even just moved here last year, you’re likely aware of the power surges that occur during major weather events.
Back in February 2021, a devastating winter storm hit, forcing the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), which manages the state’s primary power grid, to cut electricity to millions of Texans. This drastic measure was taken to prevent the grid from collapsing entirely. Unfortunately, the decision resulted in hundreds of deaths and left millions without power or heat as both traditional power plants and renewable energy sources failed in freezing temperatures.
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According to ERCOT, several factors contributed to the crisis. One major issue was the spike in electricity demand when the state, including the Houston area, experienced below-freezing temperatures.
ERCOT said it was caught off guard by how much demand could increase under such conditions…