Governor Abbott Calls for Investigation into Center Point’s Hurricane Response

Governor Abbott Criticizes Center Point’s Power Restoration Response After Hurricane Beryl

In the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, Governor Greg Abbott has expressed strong disapproval of Center Point’s handling of power restoration efforts. Nearly a week after the storm, approximately 300,000 homes and businesses remain without power, prompting the governor to call for an investigation into the energy provider’s response.

Investigation Launched by Public Utility Commission of Texas

Governor Abbott announced that the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) will lead the probe into Center Point’s delayed power restoration efforts. “Center Point has completely dropped the ball with regard to getting power back on,” the governor stated during a recent press conference. The investigation aims to uncover the reasons behind the prolonged outages and hold the utility accountable for its performance.

“You are without power in the extreme heat that we are facing. That alone can cause challenges, but also it reduces your access to food in your apartment, your house, water wherever you may live or wherever you may need it. Ice and other things like that.”

Immediate and Long-term Demands

In addition to the investigation, Governor Abbott has set a deadline for Center Point to address the current crisis and prepare for future events. The energy provider has until July 31st to submit a comprehensive plan detailing how it will prevent similar issues in future extreme weather scenarios. This plan is expected to include measures to improve power restoration times and enhance overall resilience against severe weather.

Impact on Residents

The ongoing power outages have left many Texans struggling to cope with the extreme summer heat and limited access to essential resources like food, water, and ice. The lack of power has exacerbated the challenges faced by residents, particularly the elderly and those with medical conditions requiring refrigeration or air conditioning.

Local communities have rallied to support those affected, but the prolonged outages have strained resources and highlighted the need for a more robust and reliable power infrastructure.

Center Point’s Response

Center Point has acknowledged the challenges faced in restoring power but maintains that their crews are working tirelessly to address the outages. The company has pledged to cooperate fully with the PUC investigation and meet the governor’s deadline for a detailed future plan.

Community and Government Support

As the investigation and restoration efforts continue, Governor Abbott has urged residents to remain patient and supportive of the crews working to restore power. He has also called on local governments and organizations to provide assistance to those in need during this difficult time.

For more information on the ongoing investigation and power restoration efforts, residents can visit the official websites of the Public Utility Commission of Texas and Center Point.

URLs

For more information:

• Public Utility Commission of Texas
• Center Point Energy

Phone Numbers

• Public Utility Commission of Texas: 888-782-8477
• Center Point Energy: 800-752-8036