ERCOT Asks Texans to Preserve Power By way of the Weekend – NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth

ERCOT, Texas' energy grid operator, is placing out a call for all Texans to conserve energy over the next few days as we head right into a weekend with potentially record heat.

In a statement, the Electrical Reliability Council of Texas mentioned, "unseasonably scorching climate" was driving report demand throughout Texas" and that they need everyone to conserve energy between 3 p.m. and eight p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday after six facilities unexpectedly tripped offline Friday afternoon.

ERCOT mentioned six power plants dropped off the grid Friday, resulting in a lack of about 2,900 MW of generation -- that is enough electricity to energy roughly 580,000 homes.

In keeping with ERCOT knowledge, demand reached 65,412 MW shortly before 5 p.m. Friday. Since that time the demand has been dropping. At 5:30 p.m., ERCOT had working reserves of roughly 3,400 MW and in a statement on Friday afternoon mentioned, "At this time, all generation sources obtainable are operating."

NBC 5's team of weather consultants has warned that larger than normal temperatures might lead to a number of damaged temperature records in the coming days. See the newest forecast here. NBC 5's Chief Meteorologist Rick Mitchell recommends taking warmth precautions this weekend together with scaling back outdoor activities so as to not overexert yourself within the heat. Make sure to stay hydrated too. Also, hold your pets cool and watered.