A severe heatwave in Texas risks testing the state's power system. ERCOT's preliminary estimate shows Monday evening demand approaching the 85.508 GW record set in August 2023, and the grid operator projects evening peak loads will rise further on Tu

2026-07-21

A severe heatwave in Texas risks testing the state's power system. ERCOT's preliminary estimate shows Monday evening demand approaching the 85.508 GW record set in August 2023, and the grid operator projects evening peak loads will rise further on Tuesday and Wednesday. Cooling demand surged Monday, with system supply needs topping 114 GW. Millions from Dallas to Houston are under heat warnings, with temperatures above 100°F and the NWS forecasting humidity from a nearby tropical storm could push some areas as high as 112°F.