The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) has approved a $54 million plan to relocate 15 mobile generators from Houston to San Antonio to replace aging gas-powered plants. The move comes after CenterPoint Energy faced criticism for not deploying these generators during Hurricane Beryl in July. The mobile generators, each providing around 30 megawatts, will help address power shortages due to the retirement of three gas-powered units at the Braunig Power Station.
The generators will remain in San Antonio for two years, with ERCOT managing their deployment during grid emergencies. The move is considered more cost-effective than maintaining the old power plants, which would cost $59 million. The plan will slightly increase Texans’ electricity bills by 0.4% but is seen as a necessary measure to prevent more costly power outages.
Some experts argue that alternatives, such as battery storage, could offer more affordable and reliable solutions. There are also concerns about the diesel generators’ emissions and permitting requirements. ERCOT is working with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to resolve these issues.
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