After underestimating power demand, Texas electric grid operator gets federal permission to exceed air quality limits (Texas Tribune)

After underestimating power demand, Texas electric grid operator gets federal permission to exceed air quality limits – By Emily Foxhall (Texas Tribune) / Dec 24, 2022

The U.S. Department of Energy granted permission for power plants to release more pollution than is normally allowed — if grid conditions worsen.

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The U.S. Department of Energy has cleared the way for Texas power plants to pollute more than is usually allowed, such as by burning dirtier fuel oil instead of natural gas, to keep the electricity on through Christmas morning.

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas, which operates the state’s main power grid, asked for permission to exceed normal federal air quality restrictions after underestimating the demand for power during this week’s subfreezing temperatures. Such a request is not unusual during emergencies, experts said.

Plants will be able to take advantage of the waived requirements only if ERCOT issues a level 2 or higher energy emergency alert, which includes asking residents to cut back power and interrupting large industrial customer’s electricity, according to the letter. At least one environmental advocate applauded the specificity of the request.

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