Summary via TLDRThis:
As a massive heat dome engulfed much of Texas in 100-degree-plus weather throughout the second half of June, breaking temperature records throughout South and West Texas, renewable energy output also set new records.
In Texas, up to 5 percent of renewable generation is currently curtailed, according to a 2022 study by the Energy Systems Integration Group that used ERCOT’s own data analysis, but 20 to 28 percent could be curtailed by 2030.
Hirs says the grid operator views this as a way to “construct conditions conducive” to building transmission: In theory, it will be more profitable over the long run for power companies to build new transmission lines than to continue paying congestion fees.
About $11.6 billion worth of transmission projects are in the planning stages or under construction.
Construction on the $2.6 billion, 320-mile long project is set to begin in 2025, with completion projected in 2028.
If Texas is suffering now, the future looks far worse. “
Congestion would be mitigated if they did not insist on having their own grid. Their system has also led to massive price gouging.