Texas just made it through its hottest summer on record without a single voluntary power saving request. Even with demand hitting a record 91,308 MW on July 22, the lights stayed on and the AC kept running. 🚀
The grid operator ERCOT credits a massive shift in how the state stores power. Back in 2021, Texas had only 857 MW of battery capacity. By July 2026, that number skyrocketed to roughly 21.7 GW. This allows the grid to capture excess solar energy during the day and release it precisely when the sun sets and people return home to turn on their appliances.
This system effectively flattens the "duck curve," a term used to describe the mismatch between when solar energy is generated during peak sun hours and when electricity is actually needed by the public.
This is a sharp contrast to 2023, when ERCOT had to ask residents to cut usage six times in just one week to prevent blackouts. Now, batteries act as a bridge, keeping the network stable even when solar production drops off at dusk. The EIA confirms these batteries are now fundamental to maintaining network stability.
Reliable power without the stress is a major win for everyone. 🔥
#Texas #Energy #Technology
Xataka
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