When outdoor temperatures drop, your electricity use increases. That’s because everyone is doing more activities inside, and our heating systems are running longer and more often to counteract colder outdoor temperatures. Factor in that we all tend to use electricity at the same times—in the morning and early evenings—and that equals a lot of strain on the electric grid.
At Rio Grande Electric Co-op, we work closely with our transmission providers in resource and infrastructure planning to ensure you have the power you need whenever you flip a switch, but the electric grid is much larger than your local co-op and transmission provider.
In winter months, when even more electricity is being used simultaneously across the state and region, it is possible for electricity demand to exceed supply, especially if an unexpected event like a sudden snow or ice storm or equipment malfunction occurs. If this happens, which is rare, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, ERCOT, the grid operator for the majority of our region may call for rolling power outages to relieve pressure on the grid, and Rio Grande will inform you about the situation. As an electric provider in ERCOT, we are required by Texas law to provide updates regarding load-shedding events and critical load.
Rio Grande and our transmission providers take proactive steps to create a resilient portion of the grid and ensure electric reliability in extreme weather, including regular system maintenance, grid modernization efforts, and disaster response planning; but it takes everyone to keep the grid reliable.
To help keep the heat on for you, your family, and your neighbors, here are a few things you can do to relieve pressure on the grid (and save a little money along the way):
- Select the lowest comfortable thermostat setting and turn it down several degrees, when possible.
- Weatherstripping and caulking around windows and exterior doors will help seal air leaks and drafts.
- Stagger use of major appliances such as dishwashers, ovens, and dryers.
- Ensure that your heating system is optimized for efficiency with regular maintenance and proper insulation. Replace filters, as necessary.
- See more helpful tips at the Rio Grande website.
As we face the potential for challenges posed by winter weather, understanding its impact on energy demand is crucial for maintaining a reliable power supply. By adopting energy conservation practices during periods of extreme cold, not only can you save money on your electric bills, but you can also contribute to the resilience of the power grid, keeping our local communities warm and connected.