The Daily The Blackout in Texas
Feb 17, 2021
Clifford Krauss and Brad Plumer dive into Texas's recent winter storm crisis that left millions without power. Krauss, a National energy correspondent from Houston, shares insights on the failed electric grid, while Plumer, a climate reporter, explores the implications of climate change on energy infrastructure. They discuss how deregulation exacerbated the crisis and argue for urgent reforms to adapt power systems to unpredictable extreme weather. The conversation underscores the pressing need for diverse energy sources to prevent future blackouts.
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A Reporter's Blackout Experience
- Clifford Krauss charged his phone in his car because his house had no electricity.
- His house was so cold, he wore an Arctic ski jacket and multiple layers inside.
Texas' Independent Grid
- Texas has its own independent power grid, unlike most other states.
- It's typically self-sufficient due to high energy production and demand.
The Perfect Storm
- The storm caused a surge in demand that the Texas grid couldn't handle.
- Rolling blackouts were implemented, but they lasted much longer than expected.