ERCOT Confident in Grid for Upcoming Winter Storms

January 20, 2026 – AUSTIN, Texas — As forecasts point to the possibility of severe winter weather this week in Texas, state power officials are reassuring residents that the grid is prepared — even as underlying risks remain. Meteorologists are warning of an arctic blast bringing snow, sleet and freezing rain, prompting heightened attention to potential strain on the energy system.

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), which manages the grid serving about 90% of the state’s electricity demand, says Texas has strengthened its system in recent years since the devastating 2021 winter outages. Experts point to greater generation capacity and improved infrastructure that have lowered the chance of emergencies under most weather conditions this winter.

For Hopkins County, Texas from Friday through Sunday, the forecast calls for a significant change in weather with colder temperatures and a chance of winter precipitation.

As a cold front moves in Friday, temperatures will be cool with periods of rain expected early in the day before turning colder overnight. Saturday looks very cold, with freezing rain and possibly sleet or snow at times, raising the risk of icy travel conditions and slick roads. Sunday will remain chilly, with low temperatures and lingering clouds as conditions slowly improve. Overall, residents should prepare for wintry conditions Saturday into Sunday and much colder air late in the weekend.

Still, energy officials have warned that rapid population growth and surging demand from new data centers and other developments could elevate winter grid risks if extreme cold arrives.

ERCOT typically issues a “weather watch” ahead of intense cold events to monitor grid conditions and coordinate with utilities and emergency agencies. Even with preparations underway, Texans are being reminded that severe winter storms can sharply increase electricity demand, and residents should stay alert for any grid updates.