Texas logs record energy demand amid streak of 100+ degree days

The Texas heat refuses to let up as tripe digit temperatures continue to impact the Lone Star State. On Friday, August 4, ERCOT issued a Weather Watch for August 6 and 7 due to forecasted higher temperatures, higher electrical demand, and the possibility for lower reserves. The state utility is monitoring weather conditions closely and is preparing to provide all available resources needed to manage the grid. 

CPS Energy also stated that Saturday, August 5, is a “Yellow Day,” and asks San Antonio residents to conserve energy between the peak hours of 3 to 8 p.m., including adjusting thermostats to minimize HVAC use, as health permits, along with charging electric vehicles at night, and avoiding the use of large appliances like ovens, washers, dryers, and dishwashers. 

ERCOT announced a new, unofficial August and all-time peak demand record of 83,593 MW that was set on Tuesday, August 1. Based on the council’s 6-day Supply and Demand dashboard, the state of Texas could experience new all-time peak demand records next week. At this time, ERCOT is reporting enough capacity to meet the expected demand. 

Last year, ERCOT set 11 new peak demand records, passing up 80 GWs for the first time ever. This summer, so far, ERCOT has set 7 new all-time peak demand records. The San Antonio/Austin National Weather Service office stated that there have been 27 straight days of recorded 100+ degree days so far “with another [seven plus] down the pipeline.” 

NWS also reported dangerous heat conditions and Excessive Heat Warnings for a large portion of Texas and Oklahoma on through the weekend. NWS is forecasting triple digit temperatures through the next week, with weekend highs near 105 that will rise up to 107 by Thursday, August 7. Heat indices up to 112 are possible, according to the NWS.