The Public Utility Commission of Texas is proposing a change in the running of the state’s electricity market according to State Impact Texas.
Power companies get paid when they produce electricity, but the new proposal adds a second payment for owning or building power plants. The goal is to encourage the building of new power plants. New plants would help avoid power shortages that have caused rolling blackouts.
During a recent public hearing at the Capitol, lawmakers like Sen. Troy Fraser, R-Horseshoe Bay. He said it could cost up to $4 billion in extra payments to power generation companies. That could hike electricity costs, which, he adds, is also not businesses-friendly. Fraser argued his point Monday with Public Utility Commission Chair Donna Nelson, who supports the proposal.
Reports detailing how much power Texas actually needs are expected early next year. Another legislative hearing on the matter could come in January.
The rest of the story, as well as audio can be found here.