On Jan. 5, 2025, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) issued a Weather Watch for Jan.6-10, bracing for a deep freeze that could send electricity demand soaring. But the grid, ERCOT tells Local Profile, is anticipated to hold.
What To Expect
From late Wednesday through Friday morning, widespread snow is expected, with 1-4 inches likely, and up to 6 inches possible in certain areas of Collin County. National Weather Service (NWS) Meteorologist Matt Stalley told Local Profile the NWS is still trying to pinpoint which areas will see the most snowfall, as it is still “up in the air.” (Literally, it seems!)
Starting Jan. 6, 2025, gusty northwest winds combined with falling temperatures will cause wind chills to drop into the single digits and teens. From Jan. 7-12, wind chills in the teens are expected. There is also high confidence that travel will be impacted due to wintry precipitation from Wednesday through Friday
Weather Watch
The ERCOT Weather Watch serves as an early alert for forecasted severe weather, which may lead to higher electrical demand and the possibility of lower reserves. Reducing electric use during peak demand times can help lower demand on the grid.
Why ERCOT Says Grid Conditions Will Hold
Despite the potential for severe weather, ERCOT remains confident that Texans will not be affected by power outages or other issues. “ERCOT is closely monitoring the winter weather conditions,” ERCOT Communications Christy Penders told Local Profile. “Grid conditions are expected to be normal.”
ERCOT said in an official statement that it will utilize all available resources to manage the grid, maintaining a reliability-focused approach to operations. In 2021, the Texas Legislature enacted new weatherization standards for power plants and transmission lines, mandating that power plants insulate their facilities to better withstand winter storms. Since the changes were made, ERCOT has passed generation and transmission facilities inspections 2,892 times.
Since the major power outages in 2021, which led to over 200 deaths, ERCOT says it has made several changes to the Texas power grid since the 2021 winter storm and does not expect to see a repeat anytime soon. As Local Profile previously reported, post-storm assessments conducted by experts estimated the overall financial impact to range between $80 billion and $130 billion, encompassing physical damages and missed economic prospects.
How To Monitor Grid Conditions
ERCOT encourages Texans to sign up for grid condition notifications through the Texas Advisory and Notification System. Texans can also monitor real-time and extended grid conditions at ercot.com.
How To Prepare Before Storms
While we pull out those winter coats, we have to make sure our homes are taken care of as well. Pipes freezing are the number one concern during the colder months, and if they are not properly prepared, damage is likely. But, there are other parts of the home that need protected as well. Learn more about prepping your home for cold weather here.
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