Mayor Hosts News Conference to Educate Community About ERCOT’s Emergency Grid Conditions

August 13, 2024

Summer temperatures are heating up which means the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) is experiencing an increase in electric demand. Mayor Kirk Watson held a news conference Monday to provide an update on the current gird status, explain ERCOT’s emergency alert levels and offer energy-saving tips for residents.

Joined by Austin Energy’s Deputy General Manager Stuart Reilly, Watson shared a new color-coded chart to help customers understand grid conditions, as well as what they can do at each stage.

“As of now, ERCOT says the statewide grid is in normal conditions. That means there is enough power to meet current demand. But as our air conditioners work harder and harder, ERCOT grid conditions can turn on a dime,” Watson said. “You may remember that last year we had 12 energy conservation notices when ERCOT asked us to reduce our consumption – sometimes with very little advance notice.

“Actions by residents and businesses during those hours helped all of us avoid the worst. Our community coming together to conserve means that the lights – and AC – can stay on.”

Even during normal conditions, it’s important for everyone to practice everyday conservation. Grid conditions can change suddenly, and even little changes can make an immediate impact.

Austin Energy encourages all residents to save energy and save money by:

• Raising thermostats by a few degrees, especially when you will be away for more than two hours.
• Delaying the use of large appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines, until after peak hours.
• Turning off lights and unplugging devices when not in use.
• Use fans in the room you are in to stay cool.

For more conservation tips, visit AustinEnergy.com/Summer.