Connecting new generation to the grid with minimal transmission upgrades and managing impacts through operational strategies rather than extensive upfront infrastructure investments. This approach, often referred to as “connect and manage,” prioritizes adding generation capacity quickly while relying on the grid operator to manage any resulting operational constraints. It requires new resources to risk curtailment (where the generator is asked to stop supplying power to the grid when supply is too high). The process has allowed Texas’ ERCOT to connect record numbers of new clean projects in the last several years significantly faster than other regions. 

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas serves as an independent system operator (ISO), managing the flow of electrical power over transmission infrastructure in the state of Texas.

A combination of automated and manual controls grid operators adjust to maintain grid reliability by ensuring a balance between supply (generation) and demand (load). They generally consist of three main aspects:

• frequency response – short-term adjustments to maintain the grid’s oscillations at 60 hz), 
• balancing – related to frequency response but on longer time frames, to, for e.g., plan for energy resource outages due to maintenance, and 
• voltage control – involves magnetic waves to allow for the movement of watts of energy

A network of distributed energy resources—like rooftop solar panels, electric vehicle chargers, and smart water heaters—that work together to balance energy supply and demand on a large scale. They are usually run by local utility companies that oversee this balancing act.

Often described as the “pressure” that pushes electric current through a circuit. It’s measured in volts (V) and is essentially the energy per unit charge. Think of it like water pressure: the higher the voltage, the greater the “push” on electrons, and the more current can flow.

Maintaining stable voltage on the grid  is critical to keeping the lights on and avoiding equipment damage. Voltage is not consistent across the grid, though it is locally constant, with higher voltages used for longer transmission lines and lower voltages used at the distribution level.

• Voltage support – The ability of a power system to maintain stable voltage levels within a desired range, even during fluctuations or disturbances. It’s crucial for ensuring a reliable electricity supply and preventing equipment damage. Generally, it is achieved by a grid maintaining reactive power via generating units or other equipment absorbing or adding reactive power.