Controlled Outages Are Happening Across Texas
Controlled Outages Are Happening Across Texas
The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) has ordered controlled outages throughout the state because demand for electricity from the electric grid is higher than expected.
Find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about controlled outages here.
Controlled outages involve the process of temporarily cutting power to parts of the state when the demand for electricity is too high for the electric grid to handle. This is done to protect the integrity of the electric grid. The process is not controlled by Green Mountain Energy or any other retail electricity provider; it is ordered by ERCOT and carried out by your TDSP.
Controlled outages can take place during peak times, when electricity demands are at their highest. Peak times include early mornings when most people wake up, late afternoons when people get home from work, and in extreme summer heat or winter cold. During a controlled outage, customers may lose power for varying periods of time until ERCOT is able to restore balance to the electric system.
You can stay up to date on the latest information from ERCOT by checking out its news releases, or following ERCOT on Facebook and Twitter.
Yes! Reducing your electricity usage when the electric grid is under pressure will help ease demand during peak times and the need for controlled outages. Get energy-saving tips here.
Yes. If your home is cooled and/or heated by electricity, the U.S. Department of Energy suggests keeping your thermostat at 78° in the summer and 68° in the winter. Avoid frequently adjusting the thermostat as well, as this leads to more energy usage. If you notice uneven cooling or heating, or that your system is running all day, your unit might need service, or you may need extra insulation. Contact a professional for help with repairs.
Having a backup power source is a great way to be ready if a controlled outages occurs. If you are enrolled in the Green Mountain Energy Ready, Set, Prepare program, you can get 15% off your entire purchase of Goal Zero products. That way, you can stay up and running with safe and sustainable backup power during storms, outages and extreme temperatures.*
Log in to My Account to sign up.
To keep lines open for emergencies, please do not call 911 to report a power outage.
For regular power outages, please contact your Transmission and Distribution Service Provider (also known as your local utility company).
Learn how to report an outage >
For medical emergencies, please call 911.
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