ERCOT issues Weather Watch

AUSTIN – Electric Reliability Council of Texas on Friday issued a Weather Watch, effective Aug. 6-7 due to forecasted higher temperatures, higher electrical demand and the potential for lower reserves, according to a release.

“Grid conditions are expected to be normal during a Weather Watch. ERCOT continues to monitor conditions closely and will deploy all available tools to manage the grid, continuing a reliability-first approach to operations,” according to ERCOT officials.

Earlier Friday, National Weather Service – Shreveport issued an excessive heat warning for portions of

east and northeast – including Cherokee and surrounding counties – as well a south central and southwest Arkansas, north central and northwest Louisiana, and southeast Oklahoma through 9 p.m. tonight.

“Dangerously hot conditions with peak daytime heat index values of 110 degrees or greater are expected,” weather officials noted. “Extreme heat and humidity will significantly increase the potential for heat related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities.”

Meanwhile, ERCOT noted that a new, unofficial record for August and all-peak demand record of 83,593 MW was set Aug. 1; officials are predicting the possibility of new all-time peak demand records next week, however, they reassured customers “There is currently enough capacity to meet forecasted demand.”

ERCOT manages the flow of electric power to more than 26 million Texas customers, or about 90% of the state’s electric load. Real-time and extended grid conditions are posted at ercot.com. Grid condition notifications also are available through the Texas Advisory and Notification System (TXANS).