The operator of the electric distribution grid for most of Texas says six new generating units going online by August should help meet power needs this summer.
The Electric Reliability Council of Texas in Austin on Thursday said sufficient electricity should be available, but consumers could still be asked to conserve during extremely hot weather or in case of outages.
Peak demand this summer is expected to reach about 68,000 megawatts. That's slightly less than ERCOT's record peak of 68,305 megawatts in August 2011.
ERCOT, relying on sources including natural gas-fired plants and wind power, also projects sufficient energy supplies through the fall.
ERCOT said lingering Texas drought conditions should not create operational problems for generators. Reservoir levels are not expected to drop below power plant physical intake limits.
