Power Plants

The goal of the Texas Power Grid Investment Summit was to attract investors to build natural gas power plants in Texas. But it was colored by the history of BlackRock and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, the two main organizers.

Meteorologists say steam and heat from Austin power plants rose into the frigid atmosphere, making snow that covered parts of the city.

Ever since 2021, when a massive winter storm crashed the state’s energy system and left millions without power for days, forecasts like this have provoked deep anxiety in Texas.

A panel of judges has said that big power companies cannot be held liable for failure to provide electricity during the 2021 blackout. The reason is Texas’ deregulated energy market.

Two massive winter storms have laid bare the increased vulnerability of U.S. power grids, and time is running out to reduce the risk for this year.

The vote dedicates billions of tax dollars to build and maintain power plants. Now comes the tricky part.

Supporters say the creation of the energy fund will bolster the Texas grid. Opponents say it's an unnecessary giveaway to power companies and the gas industry.

Texas’ electric grid operator is requesting power plants postpone scheduled maintenance to ensure they’re online to meet surging demand during what is expected to be an exceptionally warm weekend.

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.

In this episode of The Disconnect, we visit a Texas gas power plant that is preparing for winter, talk about the drama in Austin as lawmakers and oil and gas regulators square off over policy, and ask the question: Is Texas ready for another big freeze?