Texas is a state made of independence and has made it clear that it strives to be THE Lone Star State. As a state based on independence and reliability, Texas has its own power grid. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) is one of the three electrical grids in the continental United States. Having their own electrical grid Texas’ grid is not regulated by the federal government. Due because of its deregulation Texas’ grid has put off suggested winterization after similar blackouts were faced in 2011.
On Wednesday, Feb. 24, five of the 16 ERCOT board members resigned going into effect after Wednesday’s board meeting. Of the 16 board members six do not reside in Texas, five of which resigned after Wednesday’s meeting. Their resignation came after over four million Texas residents were left without power during some of the coldest nights in Texas history. As a result, dozens of people including the homeless and children died in the freezing cold and in house fires that resulted in families trying to find ways to stay warm.
ERCOT was warned on Feb. 9 of the impending weather Texas could face during the month and still failed to make the proper precautions and appropriate measures to ensure that the 90 percent of Texans they supply energy to would maintain power throughout the storm.
ERCOT is now facing multiple lawsuits for their failure to prepare for the knowing onset of freezing temperatures, for allegedly failing to reserve enough power for the foreseeable demand and for repeatedly disregarding responsibilities.
As board members step down and lawsuits are filed it is clear that ERCOT failed in their responsibility in to provide power to Texas residents. The effects of the recent winter storm faced by the Lone Star State will continue to be felt as damages are repaired throughout the state and families grieve the loss of loved ones.
