ERCOT, the operator of the electric grid and competitive electric market for most of Texas, released seasonal and 10-year outlooks that anticipate adequate generation capacity for upcoming electricity demands. However, both the Seasonal Assessment of Resource Adequacy (SARA) and Capacity, Demand and Reserves (CDR) report identify uncertainties that could affect outcomes.
The final summer SARA released by ERCOT includes a peak demand forecast based on average weather patterns during the past 13 years.
The preliminary fall SARA anticipates sufficient generation for the October – November period.
ERCOT’s CDR report, a snapshot of existing and planned resources and load forecasts for the next 10 years, shows planning reserve margins remaining above 15 percent through 2026, based on established reporting criteria. The next CDR update is scheduled for release in December 2016.