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  • CenterPoint lowers customers’ bills following Beryl response


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    More than six months after CenterPoint Energy came under fire for its response to Hurricane Beryl — and its proposal to raise its rates — Houston’s main electricity company announced Wednesday that it reached a settlement that will lower customers’ bills.

    Instead of the proposed rate increase that the company had requested shortly before Beryl made landfall, most CenterPoint Energy customers will have their average bill reduced by about $1 per month moving forward — pending approval from the Public Utility Commission of Texas.

    Centerpoint withdrew its rate increase proposal on Aug. 1 amid the Beryl backlash.

    “Following customer feedback and constructive discussions with intervening parties over the last several months, this plan keeps our customers at the forefront and supports CenterPoint’s ultimate goal of building the most resilient coastal grid in the country,” Jason Ryan, CenterPoint’s executive vice president of regulatory services and government affairs, said in a Wednesday statement.

    CenterPoint faced public outrage and sharp criticism from Texas lawmakers after more than 2 million households and businesses lost power after Beryl struck the city, prompting a public apology from the company’s CEO. At least 23 people in Texas died from the storm and associated power outages. Beryl also caused about $1.2 billion to $1.3 billion in damages to CenterPoint’s electrical infrastructure.

    Texas Gov. Greg Abbott criticized the utility for its response to Beryl, which left hundreds of thousands of customers in Houston without power nearly a week after the hurricane struck. In July, he said the state may have to reconsider how much territory CenterPoint could serve if the company didn’t “fix its ongoing problems.” CenterPoint serves more than 2.6 million customers across the greater Houston area and coastal communities like Galveston.

    In addition to calling on CenterPoint to create a detailed plan about how it would restore power, the governor also asked the PUC to investigate the utility’s response. The PUC presented their findings in a November report that said customers had trouble getting reliable information during Beryl and recommended that lawmakers pass legislation requiring utility companies to provide information about power restoration during outages.

    The same investigation also recommended more than a dozen improvements to CenterPoint’s emergency plans, communications and vegetation management. The PUC announced in November that it would also hire an outside company to audit CenterPoint, with results expected in April.

    In August, Attorney General Ken Paxton also opened a criminal investigation into CenterPoint to examine allegations of fraud, waste and improper use of taxpayer funds.

    After Beryl hit, CenterPoint President and CEO Jason Wells vowed to improve the company’s communications and the electrical system’s resiliency. In early August, CenterPoint launched a new outage tracker. The previous tracker had been offline for several months before Beryl struck.

    During its Beryl response, CenterPoint also faced criticism for not utilizing massive generators designed to help during extended power outages. The PUC had allowed CenterPoint to charge its customers to help pay for the $800 million needed to lease the generators and make a profit.

    In Wednesday’s statement, CenterPoint said it “would make no revenue or profit off of the temporary emergency generator proposal,” suggesting that customers would no longer be on the hook to help pay for the generators. The change comes after lawmakers, including Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, called on the PUC to block CenterPoint from passing that cost onto its customers.

    CenterPoint is also proposing moving the emergency generators to the San Antonio area for two years starting this spring to help the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, which manages the state power grid, address any potential energy shortfalls this summer. The proposed change is subject to approval from ERCOT.

    Disclosure: CenterPoint Energy has been a financial supporter of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune’s journalism. Find a complete list of them here.



    In a positive turn of events for CenterPoint Energy customers, the utility company has announced that they will be lowering customers’ bills following their response to Tropical Storm Beryl.

    CenterPoint Energy worked tirelessly to restore power to thousands of customers who were affected by the storm, and now they are passing on the savings from their efficient response to those same customers.

    This news comes as a welcome relief to many who were impacted by the storm, and serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and quick, effective response in times of crisis. Thank you, CenterPoint Energy, for your dedication to serving your customers and for giving back in this meaningful way.

    Tags:

    CenterPoint Energy, Beryl response, customer bills, bill reduction, utility company, storm response, energy provider, cost savings, customer satisfaction, Houston, Texas

    #CenterPoint #lowers #customers #bills #Beryl #response

  • CenterPoint reaches settlement agreement in 2024 rate case, reducing customer bills


    HOUSTON – CenterPoint Energy announced a settlement agreement with parties involved in its 2024 rate case for its Houston Electric business. This agreement, which is subject to approval by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT), is expected to lead to lower electricity bills for most customers.

    Key takeaways:

    • Reduced Rates: The settlement is expected to decrease annual revenue for CenterPoint by approximately $50 million until the next rate case. This translates to an average monthly decrease of roughly $1 for most customers, or about 2% for residential customers using 1,000 kWh per month. Residential bills will specifically see a reduction of around $0.82 per month, while small business bills will decrease by approximately $1.28 per month.
    • Focus on Customers: According to CenterPoint, the agreement prioritizes customer needs while acknowledging the company’s investments in grid improvements.
    • Grid Investments Highlighted: The company emphasized its investments in the Greater Houston area’s electric grid since the last rate case in 2019, totaling roughly $8 billion. These investments include new transmission and distribution lines, substations, and smart grid technologies aimed at enhancing reliability and resilience.
    • ERCOT Proposal: Separately, CenterPoint proposed sending emergency generation units to the San Antonio area to address a projected energy shortfall in Central Texas. This initiative, if approved by ERCOT, could further reduce customer bills in the Greater Houston area.

    Timeline:

    Rate cases for Houston Electric typically occur every four years and involve PUCT review and approval of electricity rates. CenterPoint initially requested a rate increase in 2024, but later withdrew the request to focus on its Greater Houston Resiliency Initiative following Hurricane Beryl. Negotiations with intervening parties resulted in the current settlement agreement.

    Get news, weather and so much more on the new FOX LOCAL app 

    What’s next:

    The settlement awaits PUCT approval. CenterPoint highlighted its commitment to providing reliable, safe, and affordable electricity to its customers while continuing to invest in grid improvements for the future.

    The Source: Information provided by CenterPoint Energy via a news release on Wednesday. 

    HoustonTexas



    CenterPoint Energy, a leading energy provider in the Midwest, has reached a settlement agreement in its 2024 rate case that will result in reduced customer bills. The agreement, which was approved by the state’s regulatory commission, includes a decrease in base rates for residential and commercial customers.

    This news comes as a relief to many customers who have been facing high energy bills in recent years. The reduction in rates will help alleviate some of the financial burden on households and businesses, especially as they continue to recover from the economic impacts of the pandemic.

    CenterPoint Energy has been working closely with stakeholders to find a fair and reasonable solution that benefits both customers and the company. The settlement agreement reflects a balanced approach that ensures reliable and affordable energy services for all customers.

    Overall, this is a positive development for CenterPoint Energy and its customers. The company remains committed to providing excellent service while also being mindful of the financial challenges facing many households and businesses. This settlement agreement is a step in the right direction towards a more sustainable and affordable energy future for all.

    Tags:

    CenterPoint, settlement agreement, 2024 rate case, customer bills, rate reduction, utility company, energy costs, regulatory approval, cost savings, consumer savings, settlement terms

    #CenterPoint #reaches #settlement #agreement #rate #case #reducing #customer #bills

  • CenterPoint settles rate case, lowering energy bills for Houston-area customers


    Rate cases happen every four years. This allows regulators to evaluate utility pricing.

    HOUSTON — CenterPoint Energy has reached a settlement in its 2024 rate case that will lead to lower electric bills for Houston-area customers. 

    Pending approval by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT), the agreement will reduce CenterPoint’s revenue by about $50 million annually through 2029, lowering monthly residential bills by approximately $1, or 2% for customers using 1,000 kWh per month. 

    Small businesses will see a reduction of about $1.28 per month.

    Rate cases happen every four years. This allows regulators to evaluate utility pricing.

    In a news release, Jason Ryan, CenterPoint’s Executive VP of Regulatory Services and Government Affairs, emphasized the company’s commitment to affordability and reliability.

    “Our settle agreement with these parties would reduce the amount of revenue that CenterPoint receives, and customer bills would decrease, while also addressing the significant investments we have made to strengthen our system for the benefit of our customers,” Ryan said. “Following customer feedback and constructive discussions with intervening parties over the last several months, this plan keeps our customers at the forefront and supports CenterPoint’s ultimate goal of building the most resilient coastal grid in the country.”

    In August 2024, CenterPoint temporarily withdrew from its rate case following Hurricane Beryl to focus on the company’s “Greater Houston Resiliency Initiative.”

    CenterPoint said its 2024 rate case is intended to support capital investments the company has made to expand and improve the Greater Houston area’s electric system.

    Since 2019, CenterPoint said it has invested approximately $8 billion in the grid, including:

    • Installing 2,200 miles of new distribution lines and over 100 miles of new transmission lines.
    • Building six new distribution substations and two new transmission substations.
    • Elevating 11 substations to prevent flood damage.
    • Deploying 437 Intelligent Grid Switching Devices, reducing outages by over 80 million minutes in 2023.

    These investments complement the company’s ongoing resiliency initiatives to improve grid performance and emergency response capabilities.

    Along with the settlement, CenterPoint proposed relocating 15 emergency power generation units to San Antonio for two years to support the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) during a projected energy shortfall in the summer of 2025. 

    The company will not profit from this initiative, and Houston-area customers will not be charged for related costs during this period. CenterPoint said this proposal, if approved, would ultimately contribute to lower electric bills across the Greater Houston area.




    CenterPoint Energy recently settled a rate case with the Texas Public Utility Commission, resulting in a lower energy bill for Houston-area customers. This settlement will bring relief to residents who have been struggling with high energy costs.

    Thanks to this agreement, CenterPoint customers can expect to see a decrease in their energy bills in the coming months. The company has committed to passing along the savings from the settlement to its customers, providing much-needed financial relief during these challenging times.

    This news is a welcome development for Houston-area residents who have been feeling the strain of high energy costs. With this settlement, CenterPoint customers can look forward to more affordable energy bills and greater peace of mind.

    Overall, this settlement is a positive outcome for Houston-area customers and a step in the right direction towards more affordable energy prices. It’s a win for consumers and a testament to the power of advocacy and collaboration in the energy industry.

    Tags:

    • CenterPoint Energy
    • Rate case settlement
    • Houston energy bills
    • Lowering customer bills
    • Energy rate reduction
    • Houston-area utilities
    • Utility rate case
    • Energy cost savings
    • Customer bill relief
    • Houston energy provider

    #CenterPoint #settles #rate #case #lowering #energy #bills #Houstonarea #customers

  • CenterPoint Energy has not requested Galveston residents to conserve electricity during winter storm


    GALVESTON, Texas (KTRK) — After a winter storm hit southeast Texas on Tuesday, CenterPoint Energy stated that it has not requested the city of Galveston to save electricity.

    CenterPoint Energy sent the following statement after a power outage impacted about 3,000 customers on the West End of Galveston this morning.

    “CenterPoint Energy has not made a request for conservation to the City of Galveston, nor any of our customers in CenterPoint Energy’s Greater Houston area electric footprint. The system is operating as designed. We did experience a brief outage impacting approximately 3,000 customers on the west end of Galveston this morning. It was quickly addressed, and as of approximately 9:30 a.m. all customers in that area had been restored. We’ll continue to communicate with elected officials and local key stakeholders and keep them informed of CenterPoint’s timely response to Winter Storm Enzo and potential impacts to our infrastructure as the cold weather continues into this evening and tomorrow.”

    Like many areas, Galveston Island experienced a night of gusty winds, sleet, and ice.

    SEE ALSO: Check power outages in southeast Texas here.

    Earlier today, Mayor Craig Brown advised Galveston residents to conserve electricity to help with load capacity issues that were impacting areas west of 61st.

    At the time, about 170 meters were without power across the island due to isolated issues and crews working those outages.

    As a result, McGuire Dent Recreation Center and Jamaica Beach City Hall opened as warming and charging centers.

    The City of Jamaica Beach has also opened its city hall for warming and charging for all residents.

    According to the mayor, both centers will remain available until the threat of power outages is reduced.

    Copyright © 2025 KTRK-TV. All Rights Reserved.



    In the midst of the winter storm affecting Galveston, Texas, there have been rumors circulating that CenterPoint Energy has requested residents to conserve electricity. However, it is important to note that CenterPoint Energy has not issued any such request.

    Despite the inclement weather conditions, CenterPoint Energy is working diligently to ensure that residents have access to reliable electricity. If there are any changes to the situation, the utility company will communicate directly with customers through official channels.

    In the meantime, it is advised to stay informed about the weather updates and take necessary precautions to stay safe and warm during the winter storm. Let’s all stay vigilant and support each other during this challenging time.

    Tags:

    • CenterPoint Energy
    • Galveston residents
    • electricity conservation
    • winter storm
    • Texas energy company
    • energy usage
    • power grid management
    • energy conservation tips
    • utility company communication
    • winter weather preparedness

    #CenterPoint #Energy #requested #Galveston #residents #conserve #electricity #winter #storm

  • CenterPoint prepares for Houston winter storm with crews, resources, safety tips


    Crews across the country join CenterPoint to take on the winter storm. Here’s how they’re ensuring power and safety for Houston residents.

    HOUSTON — CenterPoint Energy officials said in a news conference Monday that they are prepared for the impending winter storm expected to hit the Houston area Monday night. They outlined their extensive preparations and emphasized public safety during the briefing. 

    Keith Stevens, the company’s chief communications officer, said CenterPoint began monitoring the storm early last week.

    “Our in-house meteorology team, along with our external partners, started tracking this weather system last Monday,” Stevens said. “We activated our Winter Readiness Plan on Wednesday and began thorough equipment checks to ensure we’re prepared.”

    CenterPoint said it has brought in 1,200 workers from other states, including Virginia, North Carolina and Florida, through mutual aid agreements. Combined with its existing crews, nearly 3,000 personnel are on the ground to address potential outages.

    “Setting up staging sites and coordinating resources is no small task, but we are absolutely ready for anything that may come with this event,” said Darren Carroll, CenterPoint’s senior vice president of electric operations.

    Crews are being pre-staged at three locations across the Houston area, including Moody Gardens in Galveston, they said. This positioning ensures crews can respond quickly, even if icy roads make travel difficult.

    “Access to roads will be key,” Stevens said. “We’ve worked closely with city and county leaders to prepare for the worst, but we urge residents to stay home to avoid accidents that could create further issues, like knocking out power poles.”

    Carroll said meteorologists are predicting 2 to 5 inches of snow with minimal ice, which would help limit power system impacts. 

    “Ice is our biggest concern because of its potential to bring down trees and power lines,” Carroll said. “Thankfully, we’re not expecting significant icing.”

    Stevens noted the company has made significant improvements since the winter storm in 2021, including enhanced vegetation management and upgrades to infrastructure.

    “We heard the calls for change after previous storms and have made significant improvements,” Stevens said. “We’re scaled and ready to go for this storm.”

    CenterPoint said it has been communicating with its 2.8 million customers through its Power Alert Service, as well as emails and texts. Mobile generators have also been sent to warming centers in collaboration with local emergency management officials.

    The company is encouraging residents to sign up for its Power Alert Service and check its outage tracker for real-time updates.

    “The fewer people out driving, the safer it is for everyone, including our crews,” Carroll said. “We’re here and ready to serve the greater Houston area.”




    Houston, we’re getting ready for winter storm season! CenterPoint Energy is gearing up to ensure the safety and reliability of our energy infrastructure, as well as provide our customers with the resources and support they need during these challenging weather conditions.

    Our crews are working around the clock to prepare for any potential outages that may occur during the winter storm. We have stocked up on supplies, equipment, and resources to quickly and efficiently respond to any issues that may arise. From trimming trees near power lines to inspecting and maintaining our substations, we are taking all necessary precautions to minimize any disruptions to your energy service.

    In addition to our preparedness efforts, we want to equip you with some safety tips to help you stay safe and warm during the winter storm. Here are a few key tips to keep in mind:

    1. Stay informed: Stay updated on weather forecasts and any advisories issued by local authorities. Be prepared for potential power outages and have a plan in place for staying safe and warm.

    2. Keep emergency supplies on hand: Stock up on essentials such as food, water, batteries, and flashlights. Have a backup heating source, such as a generator or space heater, in case of a power outage.

    3. Protect your pipes: Insulate your pipes to prevent freezing and potential bursts. Keep your faucets dripping to prevent freezing.

    4. Stay warm: Dress in layers and limit your time outdoors during extreme cold weather. Use blankets, heating pads, and warm clothing to stay cozy indoors.

    5. Check on your neighbors: Reach out to neighbors, especially those who may be vulnerable, to ensure they have the support they need during the winter storm.

    At CenterPoint Energy, we are committed to keeping you safe and informed during the winter storm season. Remember, our customer service team is available 24/7 to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have. Stay safe, Houston!

    Tags:

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    #CenterPoint #prepares #Houston #winter #storm #crews #resources #safety #tips

  • Houston weather: CenterPoint, Entergy power outage latest, checking ERCOT forecasts


    HOUSTON – With the winter storm affecting the Houston area, power is a concern that many residents have after the winter storm that affected the area in 2021.

    Houston weather: How to check for power outages, latest from ERCOT

    What we know:

    A winter storm will bring snow to Houston, along with a threat for ice and slippery roads Tuesday and early Wednesday.

    A winter storm warning is in effect from 6 p.m. Monday through 6 p.m. Tuesday.

    According to a statement on CenterPoint Energy’s website, with the winter storm approaching, “low temperatures, wintry precipitation, and accumulation are predicted across the Greater Houston area. In preparation, CenterPoint Energy has taken a series of pre-winter readiness actions to harden our electric and natural gas infrastructure. We are committed to providing you with safe and reliable energy throughout even the coldest days.”

    CenterPoint Energy said three staging sites have been set up and approximately 1,200 additional mutual aid workers set to arrive on Monday ahead of the storm to support potential restoration efforts.

    CenterPoint Energy has also activated emergency operations center on Monday afternoon ahead of the projected arrival of precipitation. 

    What you can do:

    If you find that your power goes out, you can report your outage to CenterPoint Energy by clicking here.

    To check the latest on CenterPoint power outages, click here. 

    To report power outages with Entergy, click here. 

    To check the latest power outages with Entergy, click here. 

    For the latest from the Electric Reliability Council of Texas regarding power forecasts and current usage across the state, click here. 

    The Source: Information provided by CenterPoint Energy, Entergy, and ERCOT. 

    NewsHoustonTexas



    Houston Weather Update: CenterPoint, Entergy Power Outage Latest, Checking ERCOT Forecasts

    As Houston residents brace for another round of severe weather, many are keeping a close eye on the latest updates from CenterPoint Energy and Entergy regarding power outages in the area. With strong winds and heavy rain expected, there is a high likelihood of downed power lines and outages, so it’s important to stay informed and prepared.

    Additionally, it’s crucial to monitor the forecasts from ERCOT (Electric Reliability Council of Texas) to see how the grid is holding up during the storm. ERCOT plays a key role in managing the state’s electricity grid, so their forecasts can provide valuable insights into potential power disruptions and outages.

    Stay tuned to local news sources and official channels for the latest updates on Houston weather, power outages, and ERCOT forecasts. And remember to stay safe and prepared during severe weather events.

    Tags:

    Houston weather, CenterPoint power outage, Entergy power outage, ERCOT forecasts, Houston weather updates, Houston power outage news, Texas electricity updates, Houston weather report

    #Houston #weather #CenterPoint #Entergy #power #outage #latest #checking #ERCOT #forecasts

  • Winter energy guide provided by CenterPoint

    Winter energy guide provided by CenterPoint


    DAYTON — CenterPoint Energy wants to remind customers there’s no time like the present to check out its newly launched “Winter Energy Guide,” a comprehensive online resource hub that helps customers throughout the heating season.

    The guide features practical and important safety, energy savings and bill management tips to help the public stay safe and warm throughout the holiday and winter season. CenterPoint has a cold weather plan in place to respond quickly to potential impacts this winter, and the company encourages customers to use this helpful resource to create their own cold weather plans so that they’re prepared for the colder weather ahead.

    The winter energy guide includes several of the tips outlined below to help customers:

    Winter safety kit — CenterPoint encourages customers to prepare for winter weather by having an emergency winter supply kit:

    • Have a supply of water and non-perishable food ready. At least one gallon, per person per day, of water for an emergency situation is needed. Don’t forget to also have an emergency supply of food and water for your pets.

    • Maintain a first aid kit: A first aid kit should include bandages, antiseptics, gloves and medication, including prescription medicines.

    • Keep a supply of cold weather supplies on hand: Have at least one blanket per person and hand warmers on hand, in addition to warm coats, scares and gloves.

    • Make sure to have a supply of emergency supplies: Batteries, including batteries to charge electronics, flashlights and a portable radio can help them stay safe and be prepared for potential service outages.

    Tips, tools and programs to save energy and money — CenterPoint offers various tips, tools and programs to help customers manage their bills and save energy.

    • Manage monthly heating bill. Customers who may be facing financial hardship are encouraged to call CenterPoint to set up a payment plan and for referral to resources for energy assistance.

    • Track energy usage. By managing their accounts online, customers can access an interactive chart that displays their energy usage trends and gives them insights into ways to save energy.

    • Take easy actions to reduce energy use. CenterPoint offers a variety of free energy-saving tips that can make a difference in the amount of energy used such as adjusting thermostats, opening blinds during the daytime to take advantage of the sun’s warmth and sealing air leaks.

    Safety tips — CenterPoint provides these vital tips for customers to stay safe throughout the winter:

    • Use space heaters safely. Make sure your space heater has an automatic shut-off, and keep children, pets and all items at least three feet away from it. A space heater that uses natural gas, propane or wood should be vented to the outside. Stoves and ovens should never be used for space heating.

    • Test your carbon monoxide (CO) and smoke alarms to make sure they work properly. Change batteries regularly. Alarms don’t last forever, so replace them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

    • Know the signs of CO poisoning. Early symptoms such as headache and fatigue are similar to the flu, but without a fever. Continued CO exposure can lead to more severe headaches, dizziness, nausea, difficulty thinking clearly and fainting. If everyone in a household is experiencing these symptoms, it could be CO poisoning. If you suspect you could have CO poisoning, leave the area immediately, get fresh air and call 911.

    • Immediately report a suspected natural gas leak. If you smell the “rotten egg” odor of natural gas, immediately leave on foot, go to a safe location and call both 911 and CenterPoint Energy at 800-296-9815. Don’t use electric switches and outlets, phones (including cell phones), drive or start a car inside or close to the location or do anything that could cause a spark.

    To learn more about the Winter Energy Guide and to receive more important tips, visit CenterPointEnergy.com/ReadyforWinter.

    As the only investor-owned electric and gas utility based in Texas, CenterPoint Energy, Inc. (NYSE: CNP) is an energy delivery company with electric transmission and distribution, power generation and natural gas distribution operations that serve more than seven million metered customers in Indiana, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Ohio and Texas. With approximately 9,000 employees, CenterPoint Energy and its predecessor companies have been in business for more than 150 years. For more information, visit CenterPointEnergy.com.



    As the temperatures drop and the winter season approaches, it’s important to be mindful of your energy usage to keep your home warm and cozy without breaking the bank. CenterPoint Energy is here to provide you with a winter energy guide to help you save money and stay comfortable all season long.

    1. Seal up any drafts: Check for drafts around windows, doors, and any other openings in your home. Use weather stripping or caulk to seal up these areas and prevent heat from escaping.

    2. Use a programmable thermostat: Set your thermostat to lower temperatures while you’re away or asleep, and raise it when you’re home and awake. This can help you save on energy costs without sacrificing comfort.

    3. Take advantage of natural sunlight: Open your curtains during the day to let in natural sunlight and heat up your home. Close them at night to help insulate and keep the warmth in.

    4. Maintain your heating system: Make sure your heating system is running efficiently by having it serviced regularly. Clean or replace filters and check for any issues that may be causing it to work harder than necessary.

    5. Use energy-efficient appliances: Look for Energy Star-rated appliances and products to help reduce your energy usage. This can include everything from light bulbs to your HVAC system.

    6. Consider a home energy audit: If you’re unsure about where you may be losing energy in your home, consider scheduling a home energy audit. This can help identify problem areas and provide solutions for improving energy efficiency.

    By following these tips and being mindful of your energy usage, you can stay warm and comfortable throughout the winter months while also saving money on your energy bills. CenterPoint Energy is dedicated to helping you make the most of your energy usage, so be sure to reach out for more personalized tips and assistance.

    Tags:

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    #Winter #energy #guide #CenterPoint

  • CenterPoint to inspect cold-weather equipment, prepare emergency plans ahead of 2025 winter season – Houston Public Media

    CenterPoint to inspect cold-weather equipment, prepare emergency plans ahead of 2025 winter season – Houston Public Media


    Freezing rain

    Pexels

    CenterPoint Energy will inspect cold-weather equipment and coordinate emergency plans with grid operators ahead of the 2025 winter season, the company announced earlier this month.

    In December, CenterPoint, The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) and the utility company’s industry partners discussed preparations for potential winter weather events that could cause high energy demand and strain the electric grid.

    “This exercise included a tabletop review of different scenarios and exams for participants to foster collaboration and coordination around winter preparedness,” according to CenterPoint.

    In preparation for high demand and cold temperatures over the 2025 winter season, CenterPoint announced it will inspect and test critical equipment, including more than 270 substations. The company will also harden electric and natural gas infrastructure across the Greater Houston area by installing heaters and devices to prevent ice damage and buildup.

    Temperatures in January early this year plummeted into the mid-30’s for several days. The freezing temperatures left thousands of CenterPoint Energy customers around Harris County without power. Grid operations returned to normal conditions as temperatures rose.

    The arctic blast that swept through Houston in January resulted in dozens of ice-related crashes, despite several highways being treated with salt-brine mixtures to prevent freezing.

    RELATED: Arctic blast continues: More than 100 ice-related crashes since midnight, Houston police say

    In preparation for potentially freezing temperatures in the early months of 2025, CenterPoint will also maintain freeze protection equipment, repair damaged or degraded thermal insulation and water-proofing materials, and conduct emergency training.

    Hundreds of operational personnel and contractors will undergo training to prepare for, mitigate and respond to the impacts of severe weather over the winter season.

    “Our CenterPoint Texas team is focused on working closely with our emergency partners and preparing the grid for the impact of potential winter storms and extreme cold,” Darin Carroll, a spokesperson for the company said in a press release.

    “As part of this effort, we are taking actions that will be vital if, or when, a winter storm impacts the energy system,” Carroll said. “Our goal is to be ready to respond to any emergency, even as we build the most resilient and reliable coastal grid in the country that can withstand extreme weather at any time of the year.”

    On Dec. 19, CenterPoint announced a plan to send 15 of its mobile generators, currently located in Houston, to San Antonio to alleviate an anticipated electricity shortfall. The company faced scrutiny following Hurricane Beryl after the company’s $800 million lease of the generators went mostly unused during the more than 1 million power outages.

    For now, those units will remain in Houston in the case of a winter storm or extreme temperatures at the beginning of the 2025 winter season, according to the company.



    As we approach the 2025 winter season, CenterPoint Energy is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety and reliability of our cold-weather equipment. In anticipation of potential winter storms and extreme weather conditions, our team will be conducting thorough inspections of all critical infrastructure to identify any potential vulnerabilities.

    Additionally, we are working diligently to develop comprehensive emergency plans to ensure that we are prepared to respond quickly and effectively in the event of any weather-related disruptions. This includes coordinating with local authorities, first responders, and other key stakeholders to ensure a coordinated response to any emergencies that may arise.

    At CenterPoint Energy, the safety and well-being of our customers and communities are our top priorities. We are committed to providing reliable and resilient energy services, especially during challenging winter weather conditions. Stay tuned for updates on our winter preparedness efforts as we work to keep you safe and warm this upcoming season.

    Tags:

    1. CenterPoint inspection
    2. Cold weather equipment
    3. Emergency preparedness
    4. 2025 winter season
    5. Houston Public Media
    6. Winter weather safety
    7. Cold-weather equipment inspection
    8. Emergency planning tips
    9. Houston winter weather
    10. CenterPoint Houston inspection

    #CenterPoint #inspect #coldweather #equipment #prepare #emergency #plans #ahead #winter #season #Houston #Public #Media

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