On March 8, 2018, the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) approved LP&L’s application to join the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT). Read the full release here.
Advantages of Joining ERCOT
Provides Affordable Power
- Eliminates the need to build an expensive power plant with estimated debt costs ranging from $350 to $700 million.
- Cuts our wholesale power costs by eliminating expensive fixed capacity charges.
- Creates a revenue stream for Lubbock ratepayers through new transmission lines connecting Lubbock to the ERCOT system.
Assures a Diversified Energy Portfolio
- Provides full access to West Texas wind and a mix of conventional and renewable electric generation such as natural gas, solar and coal.
- Provides stability through access to 570 Texas-based generation units, avoiding dependence on one unit.
Simplifies the Regulatory Environment
- Avoids primary regulation by the Federal Government (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission or “FERC”).
- Involves regulation by the Public Utility Commission of Texas and our Texas Legislature.
Unites Lubbock with the State of Texas
- Provides access to Texas power plants and over 1,800 active market participants that generate, sell, or transmit wholesale electricity.
- Opens the door to retail electric competition in Lubbock.