US Allows Texas Power Plants to Exceed Pollution Limits Amidst Record Heatwave
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The US Energy Department issued an emergency order to help keep the lights on in Texas as the state's power grid struggles to meet surging demand from record-high temperatures.
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The order allows Texas power plants to exceed pollution limits through Friday night to meet the "abnormally high" demand for electricity.
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Dallas hit 107°F on Thursday, breaking the old record and marking the 5th consecutive day above 100°F.
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San Antonio has experienced 17 days above 105°F this year, far exceeding the prior record of 3 days set in 2011.
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The grid operator ERCOT has asked Texans to conserve electricity due to tight conditions, though rolling blackouts have been avoided so far.