ERCOT Says Power Grid Ready For Arctic Blast

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The head of the Texas power grid is trying to quell fears that this weekend's Arctic blast will cut off electricity like what happened during Winter Storm Uri, which plunged most of the state into darkness.

Pablo Vegas, who heads the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, says there is always the risk of power lines coming down as the result of ice. That, he says, is the responsibility of local power companies and not the grid itself.

"The grid is better prepared than it has ever been before, in particular as it relates to cold weather events like this one that is approaching," said Vegas. "We are using every tool in our toolbox to conservative operations, making sure we bring on units earlier if we need to, in order to make sure we have enough power to meet demand."

The winter weather rolls into Texas on Sunday. And there is a warning that some parts of the state will stay frozen for more than three days.


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