E8: Inside ERCOT, Black Start, Winter Storm Uri, and AI Data Center Load

In this episode, Eric Bell sits down with Russell Fletcher to unpack what it really means to operate a modern power grid in Texas. Russell shares how ERCOT keeps generation and load balanced at 60 Hz, why transmission congestion matters as much as megawatts, and what “black start” recovery looks like when the grid goes dark. They revisit Winter Storm Uri, including how close Texas came to a statewide blackout, and discuss the growing challenge of fast-ramping AI data centers, behind-the-meter generation, and reactive power. Along the way, Russell connects lessons from Navy nuclear submarines to grid operations, where calm, training, and clear communication can make all the difference.

Chapters

00:00 Eight minutes from blackout

00:55 Improv class origin story

02:17 Get to Know You in 60 Seconds

07:27 From  ...