Bill > HB1603

This bill enhances the Public Utility Commission of Texas's (PUC) authority to prevent power blackouts in the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) power region by requiring the development of a comprehensive emergency reserve power generation strategy. Specifically, the bill mandates that the PUC establish rules for procuring additional emergency power generation capacity beyond existing reliability services, including procedures to estimate the necessary reserve capacity and mechanisms for equitably distributing the associated costs. The bill further requires ERCOT to adopt procedures and enter contracts to ensure a defined amount of emergency reserve power generation capacity is available, with the understanding that such reserve power would only be used after exhausting all other available power sources and demand reduction options. This legislation aims to improve grid reliability and prevent potential widespread power outages by creating a more robust emergency power preparedness framework. The bill would take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in the Texas Legislature, or otherwise on September 1, 2025.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1603