How ERCOT is narrowly getting through an extreme summer — and how exp…

The Texas power grid is facing increasing challenges to meet high electricity demand, with record-breaking heatwaves and strain on power sources, prompting calls for conservation and a rethink of power generation and usage.

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Relevant topic timeline:

8/23/2023

Energy expert evaluates ERCOT and the Texas power grid amid record-breaking heat

Despite recent rainfall, the extremely dry and hot conditions in Texas have put a strain on the power grid, leading ERCOT and energy providers to ask Texans to conserve energy during peak hours.

8/24/2023

US Central states, Texas in danger of power shortages in heat wave

Two U.S. electric grids, including Texas' Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) and the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), may face a reserve capacity shortage during a heatwave, prompting calls for energy conservation and the possibility of controlled outages.

9/7/2023

Texas power emergency hinged on stranded wind farm supplies

Texas experienced a power crisis as a result of halting deliveries on a transmission system, leading to electricity supply shortages amid record heat and high consumer demand.

9/8/2023

Texas Power Prices Skyrocket to $5,000 per Megawatt-Hour Amid Heatwave, Forcing Grid Operator to Issue Emergency Alert

Texas power prices surged by 20,000% during a heatwave, reaching over $5,000 per megawatt-hour, leading to an emergency alert by the state's grid operator, ERCOT, before conditions returned to normal, with the Biden administration declaring a power emergency in the state, as record-breaking high temperatures are forecasted for the following days.

9/12/2023

Texas Batteries Shine During Tight Power Supply Conditions, Capacity Set to Grow Tenfold by 2024

Batteries are increasingly contributing to the Texas grid, with 2,172 megawatts being sent to the grid during a critical evening, aiding in meeting high demand during peak periods and providing electricity to approximately 434,000 homes, as the state continues to transition to renewable power sources.

9/13/2023

Alberta's Deregulated Electricity Market Leads to Soaring Summer Bills, Spurring Calls for More Oversight

Albertans faced a significant increase in electricity prices due to a deregulated market, heat-related weather events, carbon tax, high natural gas prices, and limited power plant infrastructure, highlighting the need for re-regulation to address market power and high prices.

9/22/2023

Headwinds Mount for Green Energy as Costs Rise and Support Wanes

The green energy boom is facing challenges due to fracturing supply chains, higher interest rates, and rising prices, which are testing the commitment of consumers and governments to renewable power.