It was just under three years ago that Winter Storm Uri swept across the U.S., bringing ice and critically frigid temperatures that lasted for nearly a week. In Texas, a state that rarely gets so cold, the spike in energy demand along with drops in natural gas due to iced-over pipelines triggered rolling blackouts. Coal was freezing up as were wind turbines, so even with its diverse energy stores, the state found itself scavenging for resources.

Missouri and CREC were also impacted by Uri, but thanks to co-op members in our area and across the state helping to conserve energy during that period, we got through it without instigating blackouts — even though we were dangerously close to having to do so. 

“The impact of such an unprecedented weather event brought us face-to-face with a new reality,” says President and CEO Doug Tracy. “While we’ve never had to implement blackouts, should weather as severe and extended occur again, we have to prepare for the possibility that we could.”

Could another storm like Uri happen? Absolutely. As we approach the winter months, CREC encourages members to learn more about how this kind of weather impacts the entire three-tier co-op system that serves them, and how we can all work together to be ready for it.

Understanding the three-tier co-op model 
Before Uri, CREC already had plans in the works for revamping its system to improve reliability for our members. That multi-million-dollar plan is underway to harden our infrastructure, replace older equipment, and increase proactive inspection for underground lines to help correct issues before they become problematic. Having an updated system may sound like a guarantee to completely withstand brutal weather like Uri's, but it’s not quite that simple.

Even with the newest, best system in place, it’s important to remember that CREC, as a distribution cooperative, is just one part of the three-tier cooperative model. We rely on our generation and transmission or G&T partner cooperatives (AECI and Central) to create and transfer power to CREC which we then distribute to members. If their systems are threatened, our system’s strength becomes irrelevant. If they go down, we go down – it is out of CREC’s control. 

“It’s similar to your internet connectivity at home,” Tracy said. “You might have a top-of-the-line computer, router, and the fastest stream offered by the best internet service provider. But if a global network error occurs, it won’t matter how great your equipment is – your ISP loses connectivity, and you can no longer access the internet.” 

Preventing extreme weather outages
When URI’s impact pushed our demand to the brink, you may remember CREC asking members to help conserve energy. This was also requested of all co-op members served by AECI and Central. That kind of collaborative effort is the first step we would take again in extreme weather conditions. It was what prevented CREC from implementing a load shed program — rolling blackouts.  

Though it’s a last resort, a load shed program can help balance demand with available energy resources, and that helps prevent more extensive and prolonged outages. There are strict standards that utilities must follow to maintain a balance of power generation and demand — or the nation’s grid integrity could be compromised. When demand exceeds supply, grid operators have the authority to mandate rolling blackouts.  

If implemented, a load shed doesn’t necessarily mean that all CREC members will be affected, it would depend on the cause or situation that required it.

Notifying members about rolling blackouts  
The timing of a notification for a rolling blackout mandate depends on the situation. How short of resources are we? Is it due to weather? Is it due to equipment failure? Both? 

If a threat to our G&Ts is all weather-driven, it’s likely that CREC would get more notice ahead of the need to begin rolling blackouts and could alert our members accordingly. But in the event of equipment failure — such as a powerplant suddenly crashing — it would be immediate. 

From the creation to the transmission to the distribution of electricity to our members involves many steps. If power goes down, restoring it is not as simple as flipping a switch.  Once the supply and demand of energy have been balanced following a rolling blackout, it still takes time to bring power back up. This is why being prepared is so essential.

Preparing for outages    
To be ready for any weather event that could cause an outage of any kind, we encourage members to have a plan in place, should that outage become extensive. Make sure you have: 

• Bottled water and ready-to-eat foods (preparedness experts recommend a three-day supply on hand)
• A manual can opener
• Blankets (for cold weather emergencies)
• First aid kit
• Battery-operated phone chargers, radios, clocks, and flashlights, along with extra batteries for these items
• A portable generator
• Friends/family you can stay with should the outage become extensive

In case of very severe winter weather conditions when you’re asked to help reduce power usage: 

• Turn down your thermostat a few degrees and use a blanket or warm clothing to help conserve and stay warm.
• Limit the use of larger appliances such as laundry or dishwashers.
• Use smaller kitchen appliances like toaster ovens, microwaves, and slow cookers to make meals, rather than relying on your range or oven.
• Be sure to turn off and unplug space heaters that you don't need to use.
• Be mindful of the amount of time you utilize a space heater and reduce use, if possible.
• Keep fireplace dampers closed when not in use.
• Unplug/turn off unused electronics, chargers, and lights. 

For any questions about winter weather and rolling blackouts, please visit our website or contact us at 800-392-3709.