Texans could see some relief from their often strained power grid with plans for new electricity connections underway that might also save them a buck during peak times. Two projects are on the table, with one eyeing to draw more power from other states during periods of high demand or severe weather, reported by bizjournals.
Pattern Energy's Southern Spirit Transmission project plans to lay lines stretching from eastern Texas through Louisiana to Mississippi, promising to transport as much as 3,000MW—power enough for around 600,000 homes on a scorching summer day. "Southern Spirit Transmission will fundamentally serve as 'ice storm insurance' for Texas, providing back-up power to ERCOT in times of high energy demand," Pattern Energy, as per bizjournals.
The memory of the February blackout three years ago is still vivid too. Pattern Energy released a statement saying: "Southern Spirit Transmission will fundamentally serve as “ice storm insurance” for Texas, providing back-up power to ERCOT in times of high energy demand. Southern Spirit was granted Federal approval to preserve ERCOT’s independence." as stated in CBS Austin.
Still in the planning phase, these projects need to traverse through environmental assessments and land acquisition before they can materialize. If all goes as planned, the lights from these new lines might not shine until 2029. However, the potential perks—a steadier grid and cost savings on energy—have given Texans a spark of hope.
