#United States #Houston #CenterPoint Energy #Houston Resiliency #Electric System

CenterPoint Energy Launches a Historic Resiliency Initiative

In an ambitious push to enhance the reliability and resilience of Houston's electric grid, CenterPoint Energy has announced a comprehensive investment plan, marking the largest single resiliency initiative in its history. This Systemwide Resiliency Plan (SRP) aims to safeguard the electric infrastructure against escalating threats from extreme weather events as well as broader environmental challenges anticipated in the upcoming years.

Investing in a Safer Electric Future

This landmark investment effort, intended for execution between 2026 and 2028, will focus on numerous enhancements to the existing electricity distribution system, targeting over 2.8 million customers across the Greater Houston area. The initiative underscores CenterPoint's firm commitment to not only maintain but also enhance the safety and reliability of electric service in the region, especially in the face of increasingly severe storms and other weather-related challenges.

Key Highlights of the Resiliency Plan

• - Automation Devices: The SRP promises the installation of automation devices capable of self-healing across 100% of the lines serving the largest customer bases, ensuring rapid response and repair in case of outages.
• - Stronger Infrastructure: The plan includes the replacement or reinforcement of 130,000 distribution poles and braces designed to withstand hurricane-force winds, aimed at minimizing the risk of outages.
• - Vegetation Management: CenterPoint will adopt a proactive vegetation management strategy to clear hazardous vegetation near power lines every three years, substantially reducing the likelihood of outages during storms.
• - Undergrounding Efforts: Notably, the plan will also see over 50% of the electricity distribution system transitioned to underground lines, significantly increasing resilience against wind and flood damage.

These measures are expected to drastically cut storm-related outages by nearly 1 billion minutes by 2029, promising a streamlined and reliable power supply for all users.

Economic Impact on Customers

Pending approval from the Texas Public Utility Commission (PUCT), the financial implications of this robust investment will be distributed over a four-year stretch rather than the traditional three. As a result, average residential customers could see their bills increase by approximately $1.40 monthly during the period from 2026 to 2028, with a slight further increase extending to 2030.

This thoughtful approach aims to minimize the financial impact on consumers while enabling CenterPoint to fund necessary improvements effectively.

Community Engagement and Feedback

In preparation for this release, CenterPoint actively sought feedback from a diverse set of stakeholders, including local leaders, emergency management experts, and residents. Over 30 community meetings were held to foster dialogue about the SRP, ensuring that the final initiative incorporates valuable perspectives and needs of the community.

The result is a plan that is not just a response to external challenges but is also built on a foundation of community participation and expert insights, ensuring alignment with local sentiments and priorities.

Looking Ahead: The Resiliency Initiative’s Timeline

As CenterPoint embarks on this journey, the phased nature of the initiatives reflects a well-considered strategy. The first two phases of the Greater Houston Resiliency Initiative have already made substantial progress, and the SRP aims to build upon these efforts.
The ongoing work, including the rebuilding or upgrading of electric transmission structures and key infrastructure, is expected to further contribute to the overall safety and resiliency of the electrical system across the 12-county service area, an area witnessing roughly 2% growth in demand annually.

In summary, the Systemwide Resiliency Plan of CenterPoint Energy represents a critical and forward-looking investment in the electric grid of Houston. This comprehensive initiative will pave the way not only for enhanced reliability amid unpredictable weather patterns but also for continued economic vitality in the region. As this plan unfolds, it stands to significantly shape the future of power delivery in Greater Houston, providing a robust electrical infrastructure well-equipped to meet the challenges ahead.

About CenterPoint Energy

Founded over 150 years ago, CenterPoint Energy is a major utility provider that currently serves approximately 7 million customers across Texas and other states. Delivering a vast array of electrical and gas services, CenterPoint is committed to environmental sustainability, infrastructural resilience, and community engagement, shaping a greener future for the utility landscape.