ERCOT, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, has requested CenterPoint Energy perform “rotating outages” today, temporarily cutting power for short periods of time to avoid longer-term outages.
The need for the rotating outages was caused by increased power demands due to the cold weather that has gripped the state.
“This is a state-wide emergency and CenterPoint Energy is complying with direct orders from ERCOT,” said Scott Prochazka, division senior vice president of CenterPoint Energy’s electric transmission and delivery operations. “Although we realize this is an inconvenience for our customers, these controlled rolling outages are planned emergency measures designed to avoid potentially longer, and more widespread power outages. We will continue these rolling outages until we receive direction from ERCOT that the electric supply in Texas has stabilized.”
Power outages could last 10-45 minutes each as CenterPoint Energy alternates outages across the region.
Consumers and businesses are urged to reduce their electricity use to the lowest level possible, including these steps:
• Limit electricity usage to only that consumption which is absolutely necessary. Turn off all unnecessary lights, appliances, and electronic equipment.
• Businesses should minimize the use of electric lighting and electricity-consuming equipment as much as possible.
• Large consumers of electricity should consider shutting down or reducing non-essential production processes.
Anyone experiencing power interruptions for more than 45 minutes should notify CenterPoint Energy at 800-332-7143.
ERCOT operates the electric grid and manages the deregulated market for 75 percent of Texas.
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