ERCOT asks Texans to save power until 8pm, through the weekend – NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth
ERCOT, Texas’ power grid operator, is sending an invitation to all Texans to save energy over the next few days as we enter a weekend of potential record heat.
In a statement, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas said that “unusually hot weather” led to record demand across Texas, and that they need everyone to save power between 3pm and 8pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday after six facilities were unexpectedly shut down on Friday. afternoon.
HOW TO SAVE POWER
- ERCOT asks all Texans to reduce power consumption where they can, including raising the thermostat to 78 degrees or higher between peak hours (3pm to 8pm).
- ERCOT also asks Texans not to use large appliances such as dishwashers or washers and dryers during rush hour.
ERCOT said six power plants fell out of the grid on Friday, resulting in a loss of around 2,900 MW of production ̵[ads1]1; enough electricity to power about 580,000 homes.
According to ERCOT data, demand reached 65,412 MW just before 5 pm on Friday. Since then, demand has fallen. At 17:30, ERCOT had operating reserves of approximately 3400 MW and said in a statement on Friday afternoon: “At this time, all available generational resources are in operation.”
NBC 5’s team of weather experts has warned that higher temperatures than normal could lead to more broken temperature records in the coming days. See last notice here. NBC 5 chief meteorologist Rick Mitchell recommends taking precautions in the heat of the weekend, including reducing outdoor activities so as not to overwork yourself in the heat. Make sure you stay hydrated as well. Also, keep your pets cool and watery.
