Storage has always been the issue
I think pumped hydro storage is one of the better options.
CC
In Western Lower Michigan, we have a utility pump storage facility in the form of a huge man-made water reservoir. When electric demand is low, they pump water up into it from lake Michigan, and when extra is needed, it flows down hill to turn generating turbines and electricity to the grid. I’ve read that it could be used as a giant “battery” of stored energy to restart the grid if there were serious outages.
Correct! Use it or lose it unless you can store it somehow! Tesla’s expanding industrial battery storage product plant in Houston is a step.
We are being set up again for another winter weather failure. On Feb 14 2021 a 5 day sub freezing Storm killed 200+ with more than 700 more dying from cold related behavior. At the time we only had 35% renewable energy. The grid failed then, it will certainly fail again.
This is not reliable energy, it is a moneymaker for these energy production companies, and a direct and growing threat to Texans who rely on power to survive. In San Antonio, 25% of the population require electricity for home medical procedures and durable medical devices like dialysis machines, O2 machines, CPAPS, mobility devices etc. When the power goes out for 5 days serious negative consequences occur.
Reliable power existed before the political mandate for renewables went into effect. Coal, and natural gas, and in Texas, limited nuclear power made up the bulk of our grid. The only outages we had was down downed power lines that were easily and quickly repaired.
Government and Corporations never have YOUR best interest in mind when they make sweeping policy changes.
Beware: You are now responsible for your own welfare, and cannot trust ERCOT or the government to care for your needs. If you can afford it, get a generator. If you can afford it and it is available in your neighborhood get gas heat. If you have the ability, add a wood burning fireplace to your home. You cannot trust ERCOT or the government for your welfare.