Electric Grid

Unlike in February, the supply disruption did not translate into problems for the electric grid. But, energy experts say, it shows Texas has more work to do to safeguard its energy infrastructure against weather-related blackouts.

But energy experts warned Texas consumers could still end up with higher bills without improved electric reliability.

Regulators at the Public Utility Commission of Texas may take steps toward overhauling how electricity is bought and sold in the state on Thursday. Consumer advocates and energy experts fear the changes could increase electric bills without improving the grid.

The Railroad Commission of Texas has approved a new rule to designate natural gas suppliers as "critical infrastructure." The rule does not create weatherization standards, however, and will not protect the grid this coming winter.

The infrastructure package sets aside billions for the power grid. That may not be enough to reshape a system not designed for the extreme weather brought about by a warming planet.

According to a seasonal report, the grid is well positioned to supply enough power to meet demand under normal and moderately challenging winter conditions. But extreme weather could cause more blackouts.

Several groups are investigating manipulation of the electric and natural gas markets during the Texas blackout. But the rules are different for different kinds of energy.

After millions of Texans lost power in February, state lawmakers vowed to fix the system that had failed so dramatically. But what, really, did they accomplish?

It’s happened before in other parts of the country, but in Texas it would play out much differently. That’s because Texas has its own power grid with minimal connections to neighboring grids.

For some energy experts, the increase in donations for the officials at the close of the session looks like a reward for not passing more stringent regulations and raises questions about whether lawmakers let the oil, gas and the broader energy industry off easy for its massive failures.