Challenges Faced by Texas's Power Grid

In September 2023, Texas experienced significant stress on its power grid due to a combination of high electricity demand and reduced generation capacity. The unusual heat extended the need for air conditioning later into the year, while lower wind and solar energy output created a perfect storm for grid operators. With several power plants offline and a forecast for low wind, the situation became critical as demand surged in the evening, prompting officials to ask residents to conserve energy. This scenario brought back memories of previous deadly blackouts, raising concerns about the adequacy of the grid's infrastructure and the role of battery storage in stabilizing supply.