Texas Grid Prepares for Highest-Ever Power Demand Due to Summer Heat Wave

By Thea Felicity

Jun 27, 2024 01:42 PM EDT

Above-Average Temperatures In Texas Put Strain On Power Grid
SAN MARCOS, TEXAS - APRIL 17: A general view of a transmission towers in a field on April 17, 2024 in San Marcos, Texas. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) have asked power generating companies to postpone scheduled maintenance to help alleviate potential setbacks as temperatures have risen to the mid 80s. Rising temperatures has the potential to lead to an increased power demand during scheduled maintenance times, creating a power emergency.
(Photo : Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

In Texas, Reuters reported that soaring temperatures are set to drive electricity demand to unprecedented levels this summer, with the state's grid operator anticipating record-breaking usage throughout June and July. 

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) has forecasted that power consumption will surpass previous June highs on Thursday, followed by even greater demand exceeding July's peak next week, as residents and businesses crank up their air conditioning units to combat the blistering heat.

This forecast comes as residents recall past power grid failures, like the big freeze in February 2021 and severe heat waves that left millions without power. 

Despite these concerns, ERCOT says the grid is stable and has enough supply to meet the expected high demand in the coming days.

READ MORE: Record-Breaking Heatwaves Linked to New Shipping Fuel Regulations

High Temperature in Texas

Temperatures in major cities like Houston are expected to climb higher, with meteorologists from AccuWeather projecting highs nearing 99°F (37°C) by early July. When factoring in humidity, these temperatures could feel as hot as 110°F (43°C), posing additional challenges for energy consumption and public health.

Analysts anticipate rising economic activity and the increasing energy demands of technologies such as data centers and cryptocurrency mining will strain the grid this summer.

This means increased energy consumption for cooling that could lead to possible outages and heightened concerns for employee health and safety in extreme heat conditions. 

Businesses in Texas are also expected to implement measures to protect their employees. Failure to address these challenges may result in potential legal liabilities related to workplace safety.

READ NEXT: Texas Daily Power Consumption Hits All-Time High for May Amid Heat Wave

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