Texas added over half a million residents in 2024, pushing its population past 31 million. While the state’s growth showcases its appeal, it also amplifies concerns about the reliability of its aging power grid.
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In 2024, Texas experienced significant population growth, adding over 500,000 new residents and increasing the state's total population to over 31 million. Nonetheless, this surge has heightened concerns regarding the state’s overburdened power grid, which has faced challenges in meeting demand during severe weather and seasonal peaks.
Robert Hirs, an energy expert from the University of Houston, cautions that Texas does not have the necessary infrastructure to guarantee dependable electricity during significant weather events. “The state lacks sufficient resources to ensure power during disasters,” he stated, pointing to the shortcomings experienced during Winter Storm Uri and Hurricane Beryl.
Even with attempts to incorporate green energy solutions such as wind and solar, the grid's capacity continues to fall short. Texas has contemplated linking to power grids in Mississippi and Georgia to close the gap. Nonetheless, these measures are still years from being put into action, which leaves the state exposed to the risk of rolling blackouts.
Hirs emphasized the critical need to expand solar plants and battery storage while also warning that these improvements alone may not completely meet energy demands during extreme winter conditions. “Starting today would still leave us years behind,” he remarked.
ERCOT, the entity responsible for overseeing the grid, has cautioned that there is an 80% likelihood of rolling blackouts occurring if another storm of Uri's magnitude strikes.
Critics contend that state lawmakers have not taken decisive action, prioritizing tax increases over necessary energy reforms.
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