Statement on Action by RRC Commissioners to Assist Texans During Winter Storm
February 12, 2021AUSTIN – Statement on action by RRC commissioners to assist Texans during the winter storm:
The safety and protection of Texas residents is of utmost importance to the RRC. As an exceptional winter weather system sweeps across Texas, the Commission took action to ensure that Texas families and businesses can stay warm. RRC commissioners during an emergency meeting Friday night temporarily amended Rule 2 of Order 489 to elevate electric generation facilities serving human needs customers to a higher priority. This action was taken to ensure the availability of gas supplies to gas-fired generation facilities in Texas during this critical period. The Commission took this action to prioritize the protection of public health and safety during this extreme weather event.
The signed order can be found at https://rrc.texas.gov/media/cw3ewubr/emergency-order-021221-final-signed.pdf
About the Railroad Commission:
Our mission is to serve Texas by our stewardship of natural resources and the environment, our concern for personal and community safety, and our support of enhanced development and economic vitality for the benefit of Texans. The Commission has a long and proud history of service to both Texas and to the nation, including more than 100 years regulating the oil and gas industry. The Commission also has jurisdiction over alternative fuels safety, natural gas utilities, surface mining and intrastate pipelines. Established in 1891, the Railroad Commission of Texas is the oldest regulatory agency in the state. To learn more, please visit https://www.rrc.texas.gov/about-us/.