#United States #Texas #Houston #CenterPoint Energy #ERCOT

CenterPoint Energy's Comprehensive Preparedness for Winter Storms in Texas

As the winter season approaches, CenterPoint Energy is taking significant steps to ensure a robust and resilient energy system ready to tackle the challenges posed by potential winter storms. The company recently announced its strategic measures aimed at preparing for the 2025 winter storm season in Texas, underlining its commitment to citizen safety and infrastructure reliability.

Proactive Measures for Weather Readiness

In anticipation of extreme weather conditions, CenterPoint Energy has outlined several essential actions in its winter readiness strategy. These measures are designed not only to prepare for high energy demands but also to safeguard critical infrastructure.

1. Inspection and Testing of Equipment: CenterPoint has undertaken a thorough inspection and testing of its vital infrastructure. This includes all 270 substations that are pivotal for energy distribution throughout the Greater Houston area. By ensuring that these facilities are operating optimally, the utility company seeks to alleviate potential disruptions during periods of severe cold.

2. Regulatory Preparedness Declarations: In a formal move to reinforce its readiness, CenterPoint submitted annual winter preparedness declarations to the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) and the Railroad Commission of Texas. This step reaffirms the company's completion of regulatory mandates designed to bolster both electric and natural gas systems against possible severe winter conditions.

3. Infrastructure Hardening: To enhance the resilience of its electric and natural gas grid, CenterPoint is implementing various hardening strategies. These include the installation of heaters and protective devices intended to prevent ice accumulation on equipment, as well as ongoing maintenance of freeze protection measures across critical components.

4. Emergency Training and Coordination: Training remains a cornerstone of CenterPoint's readiness plan. Hundreds of operational staff and contractors are under rigorous training in preparation for any winter storm scenarios that may arise. This proactive approach helps ensure that personnel are ready to respond effectively and provide immediate support in the event of energy system challenges.

Collaborative Efforts Enhancing Readiness

Recognizing the importance of collaboration, CenterPoint has participated in joint training exercises with ERCOT and other utility partners. Recently, a tabletop exercise was conducted to simulate various winter weather scenarios, allowing for a comprehensive review of procedures while enhancing cooperative response strategies. Such training initiatives are pivotal for aligning expectations and building a unified response to potential crises.

Customer Engagement for Winter Preparedness

Looking ahead, CenterPoint Energy also plans to engage with its customer base to promote safety and preparedness ahead of the winter season. The company will disseminate vital safety tips and resources to assist individuals and local communities in preparing for the risks associated with extreme cold weather. For further insights and updates, customers are encouraged to visit CenterPointEnergy.com/ReadyForWinter.

Conclusion

With these robust measures in place, CenterPoint Energy aims to foster a resilient energy delivery system capable of withstanding the rigors of winter storms. As it continues to prioritize safety and efficiency, the company underscores its role as a reliable utility that is committed to serving its customers through even the most challenging weather conditions.