Texas has taken another step aimed at strengthening the reliability of the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, Inc. (ERCOT) power region. In response to unprecedented demand growth and increasing pressure on the ERCOT electric grid, House Bill 5323 established the new Texas Energy Waste Advisory Committee to serve as a cross‑agency initiative to enhance energy reliability in the ERCOT power region, especially when the ERCOT grid is under stress.
The Texas Energy Waste Advisory Committee brings together leaders from ERCOT, the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), among others, to coordinate and improve both state and interagency programs. The Committee will recommend policies that reduce energy waste, promote energy efficiency and expand demand response programs—all aimed at improving the reliability of the ERCOT power region.
The Committee is tasked with crafting recommendations aimed at reducing electricity demand in the ERCOT market during high-risk hours, which are likely to include summer peak-energy-demand periods and extreme weather events, where demand response can provide an immediate impact.
The Committee’s work matters for Texans statewide. Improved program alignment across state agencies should help to reduce energy waste and improve demand response programs, which may lower consumer costs. Public reception has been positive so far, with many stakeholders welcoming the emphasis on the reliability of electric service in the ERCOT power region and the potential for cost savings through enhanced demand-response programs. For businesses and consumers alike, these goals could contribute to a more reliable and affordable power system.
