When outdoor temperatures drop, electricity use naturally rises. Colder weather drives us indoors, where we rely more heavily on heating systems, lighting, and household appliances. Heating systems, in particular, run longer and more frequently to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.
Combine all of that with the fact that most people use electricity at the same times—typically in the mornings and early evenings—and the result is increased pressure on our electric grid.
It’s also important to remember that our local system is part of the much larger statewide grid. GVEC operates in the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) market, which coordinates grid operations and settles wholesale payments between electricity generators and buyers like GVEC.
During the winter months, when homes and businesses across the state use more electricity simultaneously, overall demand can approach—or occasionally exceed—the available supply. This is especially true during severe weather events such as ice storms, extended cold fronts, or equipment malfunctions that reduce generation capacity. In rare cases when demand threatens to outpace supply, ERCOT may call for temporary, controlled outages to prevent broader system failures. If that occurs, GVEC will provide timely information and updates to members.
To prepare for these scenarios and minimize risks, GVEC’s operations and power supply teams take proactive measures year-round to strengthen reliability, stability, and affordability. These include routine system maintenance, investments in grid modernization, wholesale market forecasting, and comprehensive emergency response planning. Protecting the local system against seasonal weather patterns, increased load, and other stresses ensures our portion of the grid remains resilient even under extreme conditions.
Still, maintaining a reliable electric system is a shared responsibility. Every Texan can play a part in lowering demand when the grid is under strain. Simple actions can make a meaningful difference:
- Lower your thermostat a few degrees on the coldest
- Delay using large appliances during peak hours—typically 5–9 m. and 4–9 p.m.
- Set your water heater to 120 degrees and stagger
- Unplug unnecessary devices and turn off lights in empty
Understanding how winter weather impacts electricity demand helps us all support grid reliability. By practicing a few small conservation habits at home, you save energy, reduce your bill, and help keep our community powered throughout the season.
As always, I welcome your feedback and encourage you to reach out with any questions or concerns by phone at 830.857.1152, by email at dschauer@gvec.org or by mail at P.O. Box 118, Gonzales, Texas 78629.
