The U.S. Department of Energy issued an emergency order Sunday authorizing the use of backup power resources in Texas, as Winter Storm Fern brings increased energy demands. Energy Secretary Chris Wright directed the Energy Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) to potentially require large energy consumers, such as data centers, to activate their backup generators to help prevent widespread blackouts.
What Does the Emergency Order Do?
The order empowers ERCOT to mandate the use of backup generators by major facilities only after all other available resources have been utilized. It can also be activated if the Texas power grid reaches emergency level three. The Department of Energy cites section 202c of the Federal Power Act as the authority for these temporary changes to the U.S. electric system.
Certain critical facilities are exempt from the order, including defense, homeland security, first responder, air traffic control, hospital facilities, 911 call centers, and essential infrastructure like water treatment plants and natural gas pipelines. ERCOT is required to report to the Department of Energy within one day of directing facilities to use backup generation.
Current Situation in Texas
As of Sunday afternoon, over 83,000 Texans were without power, with the majority of outages concentrated in east Texas. However, ERCOT reports that these outages are likely localized and not indicative of a broader grid issue. According to ERCOT’s dashboard, the grid is currently operating under normal conditions with sufficient operating reserves.
The Department of Energy’s order is currently in effect until Tuesday. It remains unclear whether the activation of backup generators will ultimately be necessary as Winter Storm Fern progresses. Should conditions worsen and demand exceed current capacity, ERCOT could invoke the order, drawing on an estimated 35 GW of untapped backup generation across the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggers the emergency order?
The order can be invoked if the Texas power grid falls to emergency level three, or if ERCOT determines that backup generation is needed after utilizing all other available resources.
Which facilities are exempt from the order?
Defense, homeland security, first responder, air traffic control, hospital facilities, 911 call centers, water treatment or wastewater facilities, natural gas pipeline facilities, and natural gas gathering facilities are exempt from the order.
How long will the order be in effect?
The Department of Energy’s order is in effect until Tuesday.
As Texas braces for the duration of Winter Storm Fern, how might proactive measures like this emergency order impact the overall resilience of the state’s power grid in the face of increasing climate-related challenges?
