Eight Texas power companies failed to comply with new rules requiring generators to file winter compliance reports with state regulators, according to a report filed by staff of the Public Utilities Commission of Texas on Wednesday.
In a press release, the Commission said its staff filed reports of violation against the 8 generation companies “for failure to file winter weather readiness reports by the December 1, 2021 deadline.”
It also said that out of the 850 generation resources in the state, the agency’s Division of Compliance and Enforcement identified 13 separate generation resources owned by the 8 companies that missed the deadline. The 13 resources have the ability to generate less than one percent of the state’s total amount of electricity.
“Texans expect the power plants in our state to be better prepared for winter weather,” said PUC Executive Director Thomas Gleeson. “The Governor and Legislature provided us the tools to improve the stability of our grid and our commissioners have been abundantly clear that they expect generation entities to get ready for this winter. The PUCT cannot tolerate the failure of these companies to even file their readiness reports.”
The winter weather readiness reports are critical to ensure the generation fleet in Texas is more prepared to provide service through severe winter weather. Failure to file winter weather readiness reports on time does not indicate whether or not these companies have taken the steps to weatherize their facilities.
In October 2021, the PUCT adopted a new rule requiring power generators and electric transmission companies to take actions based on weather preparation best practices in advance of the 2021-2022 winter season.
Entities receiving violations have 20 days to respond to the notice of violation and can request a hearing.
“We are recommending stiff administrative penalties against each of these entities. The Governor, Legislature and the Commission have consistently told PUC staff that they expect compliance
with our new rules and that we must be swift and meaningful with our enforcement action,” Gleeson added.
Source: press release