Which areas in Texas could see rolling black outs this week?
Texas utility companies warns that some customers could see outages as the grid is stretch to its capacity as a heatwave rocks the state.
After seeing record low temperatures in last winter, residents are now experiencing one of the hottest Julys on record. Climate change is beginning to take a toll on the state’s infrastructure, and consequently the state’s residents.
Some cities in Texas have not seen the heat let up since early July. Dallas, for instance, has not see a daily high under 100 degrees since July 3rd.
For those hoping to get some relief, they will have to wait.
Temperatures in Dallas are expected to remain above 100 degrees, through at least, 25 July. Typically average temperatures stay in the high 90s in July, so this level of warming is unprecedented. So far, the area has not seen many outages, as a result of the heat.
Leaders in Texas fail to respond to the historic heatwave
The heatwave is the fourth this summer, marking a dangerous future for the state, which just witnessed the warmest June on record.
Governor Greg Abbott who is seeking reelection this November has said nothing about the possible energy crisis. These temperatures are an obvious consequence of climate change, an issue that the Republican leader would like to avoid as Texas is a a major oil producing state.
Beto O’Rourke, the Democrat running to unseat Abbott has released a series of policy proposals he would pursue if elected. These include bolstering the reliability of the energy grid, by connecting it to the national system, and making investments to ensure it is more resilient in the face of an ever changing climate.
What is an ERCOT warning?
As the state continues to grapple with level temperatures, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) is issuing a Conservation Appeal, which asked Texans to “voluntarily conserve electricity, Monday, July 11 between 2-8 p.m.”
The warning made sure to reassure the public that “no system-wide outages are expected.”
The ERCOT warning system has moved back into the green zone, after being at the yellow level most of the day. Once ERCOT moves to the yellow zone, the agency is encourages residents to conserve as much energy as possible. There are total of five levels:
1. Green: ‘The grid is operating under normal conditions.’
2. Yellow: ‘Energy conservation is requested.’
3. Orange [Energy Emergency Level 1]: ‘Emergency operations have begun due to low power reserves, but there are no controlled outages at this time.’
4. Red Energy Emergency Level 2]: ‘The emergency level has been raised due to continued low power reserves. Energy conservation is requested. It is advised to create a plan in case controlled outages are needed later. Those with critical medical needs should register with their local utility and have a backup plan.’
5. Black [Energy Emergency Level 3]: ‘The highest level of emergency operations. Local electric utilities have been instructed to begin controlled outages. Health and safety should be made a priority by using city or county instructions and resources. Energy conservation is critical.’
Will the warning continue?
As it does not seem that the heat will be letting up in the Lonestar States, officals are likely to keep close tabs on energy consumption. However, as we reach the night, more warnings may not come until sunrise tomorrow when temperatures begin their daily climb.