CenterPoint Energy Deploys Resources for Severe Winter Weather Preparedness in Texas
In light of predicted winter weather impacting Southeast Texas, CenterPoint Energy has ramped up its emergency preparations. This involves monitoring weather systems closely and engaging a substantial workforce to address any potential challenges. CenterPoint has positioned about 3,300 electric personnel and contract workers in readiness for storm-related needs across the region. Additionally, approximately 700 natural gas professionals are on standby, ensuring comprehensive coverage as the winter storm approaches.
The firm’s proactive measures include setting up three staging locations within the Greater Houston area, which are strategically chosen to pre-position essential resources for potential restoration efforts. CenterPoint's Emergency Operations Center has been activated and is in full operation, prepared to respond to any adverse weather conditions throughout the weekend as part of a thorough cold weather action plan.
During the initial operational briefing, Nathan Brownell, CenterPoint's Vice President of Resilience and Capital Delivery, reassured customers, stating that the company has undertaken numerous preparations from their winter readiness plan. "We want our customers to be confident in our preparations and ensure they have plans of their own to address the expected frigid temperatures, high winds, and potential ice accumulation," he emphasized.
Additionally, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has issued a disaster declaration in anticipation of the storm's effects. As part of its proactive strategy, CenterPoint has been collaborating closely with government agencies and emergency response teams to navigate the anticipated weather system safely.
CenterPoint's Chief Meteorologist, Matt Lanza, noted that current forecasts are showing a reduced likelihood of severe ice accumulation within the Houston area. Nonetheless, the company remains vigilant, actively tracking evolving weather patterns to adjust their strategies accordingly. Lanza advises the public to remain alert amidst changing weather conditions expected over the weekend.
While forecasts may evolve, CenterPoint has made it clear that customers should always treat downed power lines as live and hazardous. A distance of at least 35 feet should be maintained from such lines, with immediate reporting of any occurrences to CenterPoint.
On the natural gas side, CenterPoint has deployed 13 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) trucks across Texas to bolster its infrastructure against winter-related issues. Senior Vice President of Natural Gas Business, Richard Leger, stated that their natural gas teams are thoroughly equipped with frontline workers available round the clock to tackle any service outages triggered by the weather.
To ensure optimal readiness across its service areas, CenterPoint's Emergency Operations Center was fully staffed with over 200 personnel, along with 2,500 internal line workers and local contractors. In addition, an extra fleet of approximately 600 frontline workers has been mobilized, which includes line maintenance and damage assessment teams.
As part of its winter preparedness efforts, CenterPoint has undertaken several crucial actions, such as activating their Emergency Operations Center, coordinating with the Public Utility Commission of Texas and ERCOT for energy needs, and enhancing safety communications with customers via emails and alerts. They have also inspected and tested their critical electric infrastructure, including all 270 electric substations, to minimize risks posed by extreme weather.
CenterPoint encourages its customers to stay informed and prepared for the impending winter conditions. They can enroll in the Power Alert Service® to receive critical updates related to storm outages and estimated restoration times. The company provides resources for storm preparation, available in multiple languages, affirming their commitment to customer safety and readiness. Customers can track outages through CenterPoint's Outage Tracker, ensuring real-time updates on outages and service areas.
As one of Texas’s primary utilities, CenterPoint Energy remains steadfast in its mission. With 150 years of operating history and around 8,300 employees, the company delivers electric transmission, distribution, and natural gas services to over 7 million customers. For more information, visit CenterPointEnergy.com.
The firm’s proactive measures include setting up three staging locations within the Greater Houston area, which are strategically chosen to pre-position essential resources for potential restoration efforts. CenterPoint's Emergency Operations Center has been activated and is in full operation, prepared to respond to any adverse weather conditions throughout the weekend as part of a thorough cold weather action plan.
During the initial operational briefing, Nathan Brownell, CenterPoint's Vice President of Resilience and Capital Delivery, reassured customers, stating that the company has undertaken numerous preparations from their winter readiness plan. "We want our customers to be confident in our preparations and ensure they have plans of their own to address the expected frigid temperatures, high winds, and potential ice accumulation," he emphasized.
Additionally, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has issued a disaster declaration in anticipation of the storm's effects. As part of its proactive strategy, CenterPoint has been collaborating closely with government agencies and emergency response teams to navigate the anticipated weather system safely.
CenterPoint's Chief Meteorologist, Matt Lanza, noted that current forecasts are showing a reduced likelihood of severe ice accumulation within the Houston area. Nonetheless, the company remains vigilant, actively tracking evolving weather patterns to adjust their strategies accordingly. Lanza advises the public to remain alert amidst changing weather conditions expected over the weekend.
While forecasts may evolve, CenterPoint has made it clear that customers should always treat downed power lines as live and hazardous. A distance of at least 35 feet should be maintained from such lines, with immediate reporting of any occurrences to CenterPoint.
On the natural gas side, CenterPoint has deployed 13 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) trucks across Texas to bolster its infrastructure against winter-related issues. Senior Vice President of Natural Gas Business, Richard Leger, stated that their natural gas teams are thoroughly equipped with frontline workers available round the clock to tackle any service outages triggered by the weather.
To ensure optimal readiness across its service areas, CenterPoint's Emergency Operations Center was fully staffed with over 200 personnel, along with 2,500 internal line workers and local contractors. In addition, an extra fleet of approximately 600 frontline workers has been mobilized, which includes line maintenance and damage assessment teams.
As part of its winter preparedness efforts, CenterPoint has undertaken several crucial actions, such as activating their Emergency Operations Center, coordinating with the Public Utility Commission of Texas and ERCOT for energy needs, and enhancing safety communications with customers via emails and alerts. They have also inspected and tested their critical electric infrastructure, including all 270 electric substations, to minimize risks posed by extreme weather.
CenterPoint encourages its customers to stay informed and prepared for the impending winter conditions. They can enroll in the Power Alert Service® to receive critical updates related to storm outages and estimated restoration times. The company provides resources for storm preparation, available in multiple languages, affirming their commitment to customer safety and readiness. Customers can track outages through CenterPoint's Outage Tracker, ensuring real-time updates on outages and service areas.
As one of Texas’s primary utilities, CenterPoint Energy remains steadfast in its mission. With 150 years of operating history and around 8,300 employees, the company delivers electric transmission, distribution, and natural gas services to over 7 million customers. For more information, visit CenterPointEnergy.com.
Topics Energy）
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