Understanding what load shedding is
ERCOT, the organization that manages most of Texas’s electric grid, sometimes faces emergencies when electricity demand exceeds supply from power plants, wind farms, and other resources. To protect the grid and prevent large-scale blackouts, ERCOT may first ask Texans to voluntarily reduce usage. If the situation worsens, ERCOT can order utilities to temporarily shut off power to certain areas, a process called involuntary load shedding. These controlled outages last only until ERCOT stabilizes the grid and restores normal operations.
Please note that Base Power has no discretion over these involuntary load shed events.
How to conserve during a load shed event
Conserving energy during an ERCOT emergency can help restore normal operations sooner.
Here are some easy ways to reduce your energy consumption:
- Unplug non-essential devices and lighting
- Delay running dishwashers, washers, and dryers until the emergency ends
- Charge phones, laptops, and other devices only when necessary; unplug when fully charged
- Use smaller kitchen appliances instead of ovens or stovetops
- Raise your thermostat a few degrees in summer, or lower it in winter, to reduce system strain
TDU Involuntary Load Shedding Procedures
Because Base Power operates in areas served by multiple TDUs, the process for controlled outages may vary depending on your local utility. Below are summaries and links to each TDU’s public documentation.