Renewable Power Wasted as Texas Overloads AC and Transmission Lines
Originally Published 2 years ago — by InsideClimate News
As Texas experiences record-breaking heat and renewable energy output, the state's strained transmission infrastructure is causing renewable power to go to waste. The grid's efficiency is diminished by congested transmission lines that cannot handle the full load of renewable energy. Experts warn that curtailment, the wastage of electricity due to congestion, could increase to 20-28% by 2030. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) has been given a D+ grade for transmission planning and development. While new transmission lines and battery installations are being constructed, they cannot replace retiring coal and natural gas plants fast enough. The inadequacy of transmission lines also prevents cheaper wind and solar power from bidding into the market, resulting in higher energy costs for consumers. Interconnecting ERCOT with other regions and investing in transmission infrastructure are seen as potential solutions to address these challenges.