Texas grid breaks power demand record amid statewide heat wave

The Texas electric grid set an unofficial peak demand record Wednesday afternoon, when Texans were cranking up air conditioners to contend with temperatures climbing into triple digits across the state. 

Usage hit a record 85,967 megawatts about noon, according to data from the Electric Reliability Council of Texas. That topped the previous record of 85,508 megawatts, which was set in August 2023. The grid operator doesn't immediately validate demand records, but demand continued climbing through the afternoon.

It was nearing 91,000 megawatts by 4 p.m.  

Despite the records, ERCOT said the grid it operates had more than enough capacity to meet the red-hot demand. When it neared 86,000 megawatts at midday, data showed total capacity was more than 109,300 megawatts - outstripping demand by more than 27%.  

Solar accounted for more than 38% of total capacity, though natural gas remains the No. 1 source of energy generation across the grid. 

At an average monthly capacity of 69,700 megawatts, gas makes up the largest chunk of supply. Wind and solar trail behind, with 40,586 megawatts and 39,926 megawatts, respectively. 

READ MORE:   ERCOT predicts record demand as temperatures across the state rise to triple digits

High demand is expected to continue through the week as a heat wave continues baking the state. 

On Wednesday, heat advisories were issued both for the San Antonio and Austin metro areas because of temperatures expected to exceed 100 degrees and excessive humidity that made it feel like 114 degrees. 

"For much of Texas, temperatures on Wednesday are at their highest points so far this year,"  said newsroom meteorologist Anthony Franze. "Highs reached triple digits for the first time this year in San Antonio, with even hotter temperatures - near 103 degrees - possible from Austin to Houston."

By Friday, most Texas cities will see temperatures falling back into the 90s, he said.  

Subscribe

Read this story on expressnews.com