ERCOT CEO on summer preps, artificial intelligence stressing grid | Texas: The Issue Is

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Pablo Vegas, the CEO of ERCOT, expressed optimism about the Texas power grid's ability to meet summer demand, despite earlier concerns about potential shortages. He highlighted that over 3,000 inspections of power plants and transmission substations have been conducted since the 2021 winter storm, ensuring facilities are prepared for peak summer heat. Vegas emphasized the importance of a balanced energy mix, noting the growth of solar, wind, and battery storage alongside traditional natural gas sources.

Vegas also discussed new legislation, specifically Senate Bill 6, which mandates data centers to utilize on-site backup generation during grid emergencies. This law is expected to enhance reliability and address future energy demands, particularly with the anticipated growth driven by data centers and artificial intelligence. He expressed confidence that lessons learned from past challenges have better prepared local power providers for the upcoming summer season.