Winter Storm Brings Extreme Cold to Texas, ERCOT Prepares for Energy Needs - Cozzy Energy Solutions
Winter Storm Brings Extreme Cold to Texas, ERCOT Prepares for Energy Needs Just days ago, Lubbock and the South Plains experienced warm, spring-like temperatures, but now it's time to face another spell of extreme cold, similar to most of Texas. As a result, individuals can take various steps to stay informed about the energy grid. To get updated information, sign up for the Texas Advisory and Notification System through email, monitor ERCOT's social media accounts on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or download the ERCOT mobile app for iOS and Android devices. However, Lubbock Power & Light's website is currently under construction, with its power outage map working but no warnings issued on their social media accounts. To stay safe during extreme cold weather, the National Weather Service (NWS) provides several tips: minimize travel, stay indoors during the worst part of the cold, keep a winter survival kit in your vehicle if you must travel, check tire pressure and antifreeze levels, learn how to shut off water valves for potential pipe bursts, check on the elderly, and bring pets inside. If you do have to go outside, wear layers of loose-fitting lightweight warm clothing, a hat, and mittens snug at the wrist instead of gloves, and cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold. For those looking to save money during an extreme freeze, Reliant Energy offers some helpful tips: check your thermostat, keeping it around 68 degrees can help you save energy. Opening blinds and shades during the day, removing solar screens, and closing them at night can also naturally warm your home. Additionally, close heat escape routes, set your ceiling fan to rotate clockwise, weatherstrip exterior doors and windows, and protect your pipes by shutting off exterior faucets and insulating them if a hard freeze is expected. By taking these steps, individuals can stay safe and save money during an extreme freeze in Texas.
