Abbott: PUC needs to 'take immediate action' to improve electric reliability in Texas

Gov. Greg Abbott (R-Texas) wants to see big strides taken toward more reliable electricity for residents of the Lone Star State and has come up with a list of demands he expects the Public Utility Commission (PUC) of Texas to follow.

Abbott posted a picture of his directives on Twitter July 6. 

"I'm directing the @PUCTX to take immediate action to improve electric reliability across the state," Abbott wrote in the tweet. "These directives build upon the reforms passed this session to increase power generation capacity and ensure the reliability of the Texas power grid."

The instructions were included in a letter sent to the Public Utilities Commission.

"The objective of these directives is to ensure that all Texans have access to reliable, safe and affordable power, and that this task is achieved in the quickest possible way," Abbott wrote in the letter. 

The directives outlined in the letter included: streamline incentives within the ERCOT market to continue to develop and maintain reliable sources of power, allocate reliability cost to sources like wind and solar who's power generation isn't guaranteed, order ERCOT to come up with a maintenance schedule for non-renewable electricity sources to make sure there is always enough supply to power the grid, and instruct ERCOT to speed up transmission projects that help expand connectivity.

"Through clear communication, transparency and implementation of these critical changes, the PUC and ERCOT can regain the public's trust, restore ERCOT's status as a leader in innovation and reliability, and ensure Texans have the reliable electric power they expect and deserve," Abbott said in the letter. 

Abbott wants to see these demands addressed right away.

Spectrum News reported the governor recently signed two pieces of legislation into law that prioritized grid reform.

The grid has been a source of anger and tension since an unprecedented winter storm in February. According to KXAN, in addition to widespread blackouts, more than 100 Texans passed away during the storm.