BPUB meets the city’s growing power demand with a diverse electric system that includes electricity generated at three power plants, additional distributed generation, and participation in the ERCOT wholesale market. This variety of power sources helps BPUB better manage fuel and energy costs while providing reliable electric service to the community.
BPUB’s electrical system at a glance
Electricity generated at the BPUB Silas Ray plant
Sendero Wind Project output under a long-term PPA
BPUB buys and sells power in the ERCOT market
Key infrastructure and resources
BPUB’s portfolio includes local generation assets, a partial ownership stake in a combined-cycle plant, and contracted wind generation to support reliability and long-term planning. These resources work together to give BPUB operational flexibility as conditions and demand change.
Site commissioned in 1947; Units 6 (1961), 9 (1997), and 10 (2004)
BPUB owns 21% of this 2x1 combined-cycle plant (commercial operation: June 2000)
78 MW wind farm near Hebbronville under a 25-year PPA signed in Dec. 2015
Power supply agreements and ERCOT
After the Oklaunion coal-fired power plant was decommissioned, BPUB contracted with AEP for an estimated 50 MW of firm generation through 2021 and a hybrid fixed-shaped and wind energy supply averaging 65 MW through 2029. BPUB is also an ERCOT market participant; ERCOT manages electric power flow for about 26 million Texas customers, representing about 90% of the state’s electric load. BPUB purchases and sells electricity through its Qualified Scheduling Entity (QSE) to help provide efficient power for Brownsville residents.
Electrical Service Standards
To utilize BPUB services, customers may need to comply with BPUB's electrical standards.
Energy Conservation
Save energy, save money, and help protect the Texas grid with BPUB's energy conservation tips, programs, and resources.
Electric Service Policies
To receive a uniform, efficient, and adequate utility service, all customers are subject to our Service Policies.