The United States has three main power grids: The Eastern and Western Interconnection, which each service multiple states, and Texas, which gets an independent power grid. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas, or ERCOT, handles 85 percent of the state’s power needs, producing and distributing electricity to 23 million people.

But, why does Texas need its own grid?

Slate reports that during World War II, Texas was home to many factories required for critical supplies. The electrical planners didn’t want to depend on energy coming in from other states, so they used the abundant natural resources to set up a grid specifically for Texas. Even today, this state requires a massive amount of electricity to keep the industrial sector powered, so it makes sense to have a dedicated grid.

Texas has a strong culture of self-sufficiency, which had an influence on the development of its own energy grid. It does have links to the other interconnections, which get used during particularly high demand periods. Unusually hot summers or long heat waves can sometimes lead to Texas importing energy, so the air conditioners keep going strong.

The utility companies governed by the ERCOT typically do not sell energy outside state lines. This configuration allows Texas to set most of its own rules and regulations, as opposed to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission setting oversight in place. State regulators can make decisions that make the most sense for their residents, rather than making adjustments based on the needs of multiple states.

Texas has the space and natural resources needed to produce inexpensive electricity for residents and businesses. These costs fall below the national average. Renewable energy sources, such as wind-powered electricity, are moving Texas to more environmentally friendly options.

However, inexpensive energy does have a downside. Population growth in Austin is significant, thanks to startups, tech companies and other businesses moving into the area. Google Fiber also plays a role in bringing in more people. The energy grid needs to adapt to the rising amount of individuals who call Texas home, but electricity companies have less of an incentive to build in Texas compared to states with higher energy costs.

Contact Bryant Electric Service to make sure you’re getting the most out of the Texas Power grid and take back your energy today!

Spring weather is finally here, a welcome relief for those parts of the country that have spent the last few months plagued by snow and ice. With the warm weather comes an increased dependence on air conditioners, which can use up a large amount of energy and add to your utility bills each month. There are certain steps you can take to reduce the overall electrical consumption of your house so you do not have to pay as much when you write out that check.

Here are a few ways you can improve your home's power use:

You never know when a winter storm is going to rear its ugly head and cause all kinds of problems, including power outages. While it is pretty rare in southern California, power failures are not. It doesn’t hurt to be prepared to deal with a power outage if and when it happens, no matter what the reason may be. You can do a few things today that will make your life a little easier when that surprise power outage hits. An electrician in Los Angeles has a few tips for you. If you would like more information, give The Electric Connection a call.

First and foremost, you need to be prepared. You will need to have at least one flashlight, but preferably several along with extra batteries. Storing these items is a designated drawer or in a rubber tote that is easy to get to is ideal. You don’t want to be fumbling in the dark or trying to traverse the stairway to get to your only source of light. However, just a little tip that can be very handy, your cell phone is probably never far from you. Take the time to download a free flashlight app that can be used to safely guide you to your flashlights. Be warned, these apps can suck the battery of your phone so use it sparingly.

Safety candles, the number for your power company and matches are also good to have on hand in case of a power outage. Most of the time the outage is very short-lived, but you still need to be ready if you live in Los Angeles. Electrical equipment like your televisions, computers, and kitchen appliances should be unplugged immediately following a power outage. This ensures a surge doesn’t happen when the power is restored and ultimately destroy anything that is plugged in. If you have any more questions about what to do in a power outage, give The Electric Connection a call today.