The Freeze Of 2021, Texas Lessons

Weather is not always predictable. The winter storm of 2021 proved it.

We can either learn from our mistakes and prepare for the next freeze, or we are doomed to repeat the same mistakes.

First, our grid was not ready for freezing weather. Specifically, wind turbines froze up and we also had problems with natural gas pipelines' capacity being impacted as well as power plants going offline.

Second, peak power is not inexpensive like insurance, you don't need it until you need it. If you don't prepare, it won't be there.

Third, alternative energy is just one part of the total energy picture which includes fossil fuels. Wind is great until there is no wind, solar great until we have no sun.

Fourth, we also have challenges with the grid's vulnerability and we need an efficient energy storage solution (i.e., next generation batteries).

One thing is clear, we cannot afford to go through this again.