Kirk Preston Watson - Mayor of Austin, Texas | Facebook
Kirk Preston Watson - Mayor of Austin, Texas | Facebook
Mayor Kirk Watson held a news conference on Monday to update the community on the current grid status, explain ERCOT’s emergency alert levels, and offer energy-saving tips for residents. The event comes as summer temperatures rise, increasing electric demand on the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT).
Watson was joined by Austin Energy’s Deputy General Manager Stuart Reilly. During the conference, they introduced a new color-coded chart designed to help customers understand grid conditions and actions to take 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 stated. “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 remains important for everyone to practice everyday conservation measures as grid conditions can change suddenly.
Austin Energy encourages all residents to save energy and money by following conservation tips available at AustinEnergy.com/Summer.
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