Potential power shortages ahead

AUSTIN (AP) - The operator of the electric distribution grid for most of Texas foresees potential electric power shortages over the next decade as record demand continues to grow.

That is the conclusion of a long-term study released Tuesday by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas. ERCOT Chief Executive Trip Doggett says immediate steps must be taken on both the supply side and the demand side of the power equation to ensure reliable electric service for the future.

The report shows a reserve margin of just 9.8 percent of electric generating capacity as soon as 2014, well below ERCOT's 13.75 percent target, and a further drop to 6.9 percent by 2015.

The study counts on coal-fired generating capacity expected to shut down under a proposed federal clean-air rule stayed by a federal court.