This year's first major heat wave is here. How will the ERCOT power grid hold up?

Claire Hao | Source: Houston Chronicle | Posted 05/14/2025

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The Texas power grid is expected to sail through the first major heat wave of the year without issue, largely thanks to its diverse and growing mix of power plants and renewable energy.


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The Texas power grid is expected to handle the first major heat wave of the year without significant issues, thanks to a diverse mix of power sources, including renewable energy. Despite ongoing legislative efforts to limit renewable energy, experts believe that these resources are crucial for maintaining grid stability during peak demand periods, especially as temperatures rise into the 90s and beyond.

Electricity demand is projected to reach record levels, with forecasts suggesting a potential all-time high of 81 gigawatts. However, ERCOT officials are confident that the grid can meet this demand without resorting to rolling blackouts, attributing this stability to the increased capacity from solar and battery storage. The growing reliance on renewable energy has significantly improved the grid's resilience compared to previous years, when similar heat waves would have likely resulted in emergencies.



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Source Link: https://www.houstonchronicle.com/business/energy/article/ercot-power-grid-heat-wave-20325004.php

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