Public Utility Commission of Texas

Unlike in February, the supply disruption did not translate into problems for the electric grid. But, energy experts say, it shows Texas has more work to do to safeguard its energy infrastructure against weather-related blackouts.

Asked if there's even a remote chance of blackouts this winter, the state's top grid regulator told TPR "absolutely not."

CPS Energy will resume disconnections for past-due bills in October.

“Nobody should be in that kind of heat because their power has been removed,” Betty Gregory said. “That’s violence. That’s spraying me with guns, if you turn off my power and turn your back. I'm serious. I’m very serious. This heat is not playing.”

The storm’s effects are still lingering for many in the state. That's especially true for low-income Texans.

ERCOT doesn’t have the power to mandate major changes. That’s the job of the Public Utility Commission (PUC), which oversees ERCOT and regulates the grid, as well as the Railroad Commission, which regulates the natural gas sector. The Texas legislature oversees all of the organizations, and its efforts to mandate weatherization have stalled.

With two months left in the legislative session, Texas state policymakers are split on two key issues related to the deadly power outages in February: electricity repricing and natural gas reforms.

Arthur D'Andrea was the only remaining member of the three-seat commission that regulates the state's electric, telecommunication and water and sewer utilities.

Experts worry the remaining corporations will become “huge monsters that can't fail,” which could stifle competition and increase costs for ratepayers in the long-term.

Some said the move would have saved companies and lowered electric rates for consumers hit by high prices in the storm.