Texans urged to conserve energy to prevent blackouts.

Texas Grid Operator Urges Conservation Amid Heat Wave

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) has issued a “Weather Watch” alert, urging residents to conserve electricity and take measures to avoid power outages. With a searing heat wave and record-breaking demand forecasts, the grid operator is calling on Texans to raise their thermostats and reduce energy consumption.

Voluntary Measures to Prevent Power Shortages

ERCOT has asked residents to refrain from running large appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines, and to turn off unnecessary lights. The request also extends to businesses and government agencies.

Forecasters predict that demand could reach a peak of 81,230 megawatts, surpassing the previous record of 80,148 megawatts set last July. This marks the latest in a series of demand forecasts that ERCOT has exceeded in recent years.

While ERCOT emphasizes that the request is voluntary and not an emergency, the memory of the devastating power outages during the 2021 Winter Storm Uri still lingers. With over 4.5 million Texans losing power and hundreds of lives lost, the state remains on edge.

Triple-Digit Temperatures and High Humidity

As temperatures soar into the triple digits across many parts of the state, the National Weather Service warns of a heat index as high as 116 degrees Fahrenheit in the Houston area. The combination of extreme heat and humidity puts additional strain on the grid.

The grid operator anticipates that these challenging conditions will persist through Wednesday.

Stay informed and take part in conserving energy to help prevent power shortages.

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