ERCOT on Tuesday added two weeks to most of its COVID-19 coronavirus response measures, extending virtual meetings and barring most visitors from its facilities through May 17.
The ISO, which manages almost 90% of the Texas grid, said it is closely monitoring the outbreak and following health agency guidance in extending the measures through “an abundance of caution.”
ERCOT closed its facilities to most outside visitors on March 3, directed all meetings be held virtually and restricted staff travel. It said it will consult with stakeholder leadership in determining how long meetings are held remotely. (See ERCOT, SPP Adapt to ‘New Normal’ in Pandemic.)
The grid operator required employees who did not need to be on-site to work from home beginning March 18. An employee task force has been charged with developing a strategy for returning to work on-site. The team will present its findings to ERCOT’s Pandemic Planning Team and executive leadership for final approval.
A spokesperson said there is “no guarantee” staff will be able to return to their offices on May 18.
ERCOT announced the extension as Texas joins other states in taking steps to reopen its economy. State parks opened Monday, and retail shops will be allowed to sell items for curbside pickup on Friday.
Texas ranks near the bottom of U.S. states in testing per capita at one test per 1,000 people. The state said Tuesday it has 19,548 confirmed cases and 495 deaths. A University of Texas model says the state will face a peak number for deaths on April 26.
