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Powering Texas

Oncor Prepared for Colder Temps & 2024-25 Winter Season

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Communications
12.31.2024

With winter in full swing, Oncor has ensured that all preparations are in place for the 2024-25 season. Oncor has been hard at work for months, proactively getting ready for what the colder months may bring.

 

Oncor’s planning process happens year-round to anticipate potential weather impacts, from extreme cold spells to winter storms. In preparation for this winter, Oncor has completed a range of critical tasks, including:

 

  • Inspecting and servicing thousands of electrical facilities, including stations and main feeder lines, to ensure they are fully operational and ready for high demand and cold temperatures. In addition, Oncor inspects hundreds of vehicles, such as bucket trucks, to make sure they’re ready for winter driving conditions.
  • Leveraging forecasting and predictive analytics to identify potential high-load areas, enabling proactive upgrades and replacements of equipment to prevent failures.
  • Reviewing material inventory and ensuring contract resources are secured to support  an uninterrupted supply chain for repairs and equipment.
  • Verifying employee safety with regular personal protective equipment checks, ensuring workers are ready for any winter conditions.
  • Conducting extensive emergency preparedness training so personnel can respond quickly and safely in the event of an outage.

Oncor Preps for Winter Weather

Additionally, Oncor complies with the Public Utility Commission’s (PUC) weatherization rules under Senate Bill 3, having submitted its annual Winter Weather Readiness Report to ensure all equipment is properly prepared for the season.

 

As the “poles and wires” power delivery company, Oncor does not own or operate power generation facilities but remains closely coordinated with local officials, emergency management teams and communities. This helps ensure that Oncor can efficiently respond to any local needs, particularly during severe weather events.

 

Oncor encourages customers to stay informed and prepared by using its wide array of communication channels:

 

For information on Critical Care or Chronic Condition Customer (Residential) or Critical Load Public Safety or Critical Load Industrial Customer (Non-Residential) designations, click here.

 

Please be aware that this designation does not guarantee an uninterrupted, regular or continuous power supply.

 

Winter Weather Outlook for 2024-25

Oncor monitors both seasonal and short-term weather forecasts year-round. This winter is no different, and you can read about this season’s weather outlook here. One key factor influencing this winter’s weather will be the possible development of La Niña, a climate pattern that typically leads to drier and warmer conditions across the southern United States, including Texas.

 

While the forecast leans toward a warmer and drier season overall, it's important to remember that winter weather can be unpredictable, and certain days could still bring cold temperatures and winter storms.

 

Winter Preparedness Tips

Ahead of each winter, we strongly encourage customers to prepare for the colder months and the possibility of severe weather. Oncor advises customers to:

  • Monitor local forecasts and stay updated on any potential weather changes.
  • Build or refresh your winter storm safety kit, including blankets, flashlights, extra batteries and non-perishable food and water.
  • Check your home’s insulation and heating system to ensure energy efficiency and comfort during colder weather.

 

Oncor remains committed to providing reliable, safe power while helping customers navigate whatever weather comes their way. By preparing early and staying informed, we can all work together to face the winter months with confidence.