In the wake of the catastrophic aftermath left by Hurricane Beryl, Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has voiced a stern call for the CEO of CenterPoint Energy, Jason Wells, to step down from his role. In a recent public hearing and workshop conducted by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) in Houston, Patrick expressed his concerns regarding the power utility’s preparedness and subsequent handling of the natural disaster’s fallout, as per a report by the Houston Chronicle. Echoing the frustrated sentiments of Houstonians, Patrick highlighted that the response was not reflective of the CenterPoint he knew in the past.
Having fielded complaints from businesses wary of relocating due to Houston’s power reliability issues, the lieutenant governor didn’t mince words in stating that CenterPoint should not proceed with a rate increase until it has demonstrated improved reliability. Wells, facing Patrick’s scrutiny, was questioned about the possibility of overcharging customers in a $800 million generator lease agreement, a deal Patrick dubbed as a “terrible deal.” With Texas ratepayers facing the potential brunt of this decision, Wells’s leadership and the PUCT’s part in this transaction face critical examination, according to KHOU 11 News.
At the same hearing, Patrick urged the PUCT to commence an audit of CenterPoint’s business operations, stressing that the public’s interest should take precedence over corporate profits. Moreover, Patrick emphasized the need for a strong leader at CenterPoint who will have foresight, rather than one who offers reactionary solutions. He also conveyed a direct message to the PUCT, outlining his expectations for them to act in defense of the ratepayers and against unnecessary financial burdens…