We analyzed 20 years of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) data about the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) to answer the question: How has ERCOT impacted energy production and the environment over the past two decades?
To determine the impact, we compared EPA eGRID data, which shows fossil fuel emissions and energy outputs in U.S. regions. The data includes ERCOT’s usage of fossil fuels and renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind.
Here are a few key terms found on this page:
- ERCOT: The Electric Reliability Council of Texas manages most of the state’s utility grid. ERCOT may also be referenced as ERCT.
- eGRID: The Emissions & Generated Resource Integrated Database (eGRID) monitors emissions and energy output of U.S. regions.
- Subregion: A smaller portion of a U.S. region. For example, the ERCOT subregion covers most of Texas.
- Energy mix: The combination of energy sources used to power a specific area, consisting of various fossil fuels and renewable sources.
Learn more about our research findings.