Texas Senate approves bill to enhance electric grid reliability

AUSTIN, Texas (KXXV) — Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick announced Wednesday

that the Texas Senate has unanimously passed Senate Bill 6, which aims

to improve the state’s electric grid reliability.

Patrick praised the legislation, authored by Sen. Phil King, R-

Weatherford, as a critical step to support Texas' economic growth and

energy demands.

"Texas is open for business like never before. As more people and

companies move to Texas, our grid must become stronger and more

reliable to ensure the Texas Miracle continues uninterrupted," Patrick

said.

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) estimates the state's

power demand could reach between 130 and 150 gigawatts by 2030, up

from a peak of 86 gigawatts in 2024. Patrick emphasized that SB 6 would

help Texas accommodate this growth while protecting consumers from

rising energy costs.

The bill seeks to improve ERCOT's load forecasting transparency,

enhance outage protections for residential consumers, adjust

transmission cost allocations, and bolster grid reliability.

Patrick also highlighted the bill’s role in advancing Texas' position in

artificial intelligence, stating that strengthening the power grid would

help Texas lead in AI development while supporting national efforts.

"Sen. King and the entire Senate’s leadership on SB 6 will ensure the

ERCOT grid is prepared to grow and place Texas at the epicenter of

helping President Trump achieve AI dominance over China and make

Texas number one in AI," Patrick said.

SB 6 has now been moved to the Texas House for consideration.