ERCOT Asks Texans to Conserve Power By the Weekend – NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth

ERCOT, Texas' power grid operator, is placing out a call for all Texans to conserve energy over the next few days as we head into a weekend with potentially document warmth.

In a statement, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas mentioned, "unseasonably hot climate" was driving record demand across Texas" and that they need everybody to preserve energy between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday after six services unexpectedly tripped offline Friday afternoon.

ERCOT stated six energy plants dropped off the grid Friday, leading to a lack of about 2,900 MW of technology -- that is enough electrical energy to energy roughly 580,000 properties.

According to ERCOT information, demand reached 65,412 MW shortly before 5 p.m. Friday. Since that point the demand has been dropping. At 5:30 p.m., ERCOT had working reserves of roughly 3,400 MW and in a statement on Friday afternoon mentioned, "Right now, all generation sources obtainable are operating."

NBC 5's team of weather specialists has warned that higher than normal temperatures may lead to several broken temperature records within the coming days. See the newest forecast here. NBC 5's Chief Meteorologist Rick Mitchell recommends taking heat precautions this weekend including scaling back outdoor activities in order not to overexert yourself within the heat. Remember to stay hydrated too. Additionally, keep your pets cool and watered.