Texas grid risk: Costly repairs could foil ERCOT's summer generation plans.

Sara DiNatale | Source: San Antonio Express News | Posted 04/09/2025

Keyword Tags:

ERCOT says a 400 megawatt CPS Energy plant may not be be fixed until mid-August. That could put state grid at risk.


AI generated summary

An aging gas-fired generating unit in San Antonio, crucial for Texas grid stability, is facing significant delays in repairs, potentially remaining offline for up to 12 months. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) had previously ordered CPS Energy to keep the unit operational past its planned retirement due to concerns over transmission line congestion. However, recent inspections have revealed unexpected issues, including the need to replace a critical component, which could push the unit's return to service to mid-August or later.

The escalating repair costs are also a concern, with estimates rising from $34 million to $46.5 million. ERCOT is working on deploying a fleet of portable generators to alleviate congestion in the San Antonio area, which may become increasingly necessary if the Braunig Unit 3 repairs are further delayed. Despite challenges, ERCOT is focused on ensuring these additional resources are available during peak summer demand to maintain grid reliability.



Link to Original Article

Please find the link to the full article below. (Please note that content provider might require a paid subscription)


Source Link: https://www.expressnews.com/business/article/ercot-summer-transmission-braunig-cps-energy-texas-20264647.php

Create a free trial account: Sign Up

Grid monitor is free to try. No credit card required


Already have an account? Login

Most Active PUCT Filings

APPLICATION OF ENTERGY TEXAS, INC. TO AMEND ITS CERTIFICATE OF CONVENIENCE AND NECESSITY FOR THE SETEX AREA RELIABILITY PROJECT IN JASPER, MONTGOMERY, NEWTON, POLK, SAN JACINTO, TRINITY, TYLER, AND WALKER COUNTIES - (212 filings)

APPLICATION OF EL PASO ELECTRIC COMPANY FOR AUTHORITY TO CHANGE RATES - (95 filings)

APPLICATION OF CENTERPOINT ENERGY HOUSTON ELECTRIC, LLC FOR APPROVAL OF ITS 2026-2028 TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM RESILIENCY PLAN - (78 filings)

BROKER REGISTRATIONS - (76 filings)

CY 2024 ANNUAL POWER LINE INSPECTION & SAFETY REPORT IN PURSUANT TO 16 TAC § 25.97(F) - (72 filings)

PROJECT TO SUBMIT EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLANS AND RELATED DOCUMENTS UNDER 16 TAC § 25.53 - (65 filings)

CY 2025 FIVE-YEAR REPORTS FOR LINE INSPECTION AND SAFETY UNDER 16 TAC § 25.97 (E) - (46 filings)