Turbine-powered grid users shocked by wind outage notice.
Texas Relies on Unreliable Green Energy, Asks Citizens to Conserve Electricity
Texas, a state known for its vast natural resources in oil and gas, is facing the consequences of relying on unreliable green energy alternatives. As temperatures rise across the state, citizens have been asked to voluntarily conserve electricity. This comes after a brutal winter storm in February 2021, where the state failed to supply enough power, resulting in the deaths of nearly 250 people.
Last year, Texas generated about one-quarter of its power from wind, according to Reuters. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), which operates the state’s grid, had plans to increase this to 29 percent by this year. However, the reliability of wind energy has been called into question, as shown in a video of a wind turbine being struck by lightning in Oklahoma.
This is near Cromwell, OK. Brent Havins shot this video of a wind turbine that got struck by lightning. pic.twitter.com/jBjUNas0yc
— Mike Collier (@MikeCollierWX) July 22, 2022
Despite the challenges in wind generation, ERCOT continues to push for increased reliance on wind power. Reporter Gavin Maguire noted in June that Texas was experiencing difficulty in producing power from wind due to a drop in wind speeds. However, ERCOT believes that in the long run, wind generation will play a decisive role in the stability of the grid.
Recently, ERCOT issued a voluntary conservation notice to Texans as extreme temperatures and low wind generation put strain on the grid. Texans were asked to reduce electric use if safe to do so.
(2/2) TXANS Update—8/17/23: ERCOT is not currently in emergency operations. For more information, energy-saving tips, and to sign up for #TXANS notifications, visit https://t.co/75DJRJjB5n
— ERCOT (@ERCOT_ISO) August 17, 2023
This situation raises concerns about Texas following in the footsteps of California, where unreliable green energy has led to power shortages and the need for energy conservation efforts. Texas, a state known for its independence, should not leave itself vulnerable to unpredictable breezes and the decisions of politically motivated individuals.
As temperatures continue to rise, reaching up to 110 degrees, the importance of a reliable energy source becomes even more evident. The burning of natural gas could have been a viable solution to avoid potential grid failures.
Texas must prioritize the stability and reliability of its power grid to ensure the well-being of its citizens, especially during extreme weather conditions.
Source: The Western Journal
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