Texas regulators unveil new oil, gas, utility infrastructure map to assist during extreme weather

AUSTIN – According to a jointly-released statement from the Railroad Commission of Texas and the Public Utility Commission of Texas, the Texas Electricity Supply Chain Map now includes more information that will assist state emergency officials in preparing for, responding to and recovering from weather emergencies or other disasters.

The map was created in April 2022, and has successfully been used by state emergency officials during weather emergencies including severe storms last winter season. It’s a crucial tool used by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT), the Railroad Commission (RRC), and state emergency responders to respond to issues in real-time through direct communication and movement of resources necessary for maintenance or repair of electric generation and transmission infrastructure during an emergency.

The map has more than 12,746 facilities, including electricity generation plants powered by natural gas, electric substations, natural gas processing plants, underground gas storage facilities, oil and gas well leases, saltwater disposal wells. It also has more than 21,000 miles of gas transmission pipelines and approximately 60,000 miles of electric transmission lines;

In addition, the map contains approximately 13,000 water and wastewater treatment plants and basemap layer of Texas Department of Transportation roads.

“The Texas Electricity Supply Chain Map is a critical tool for the PUCT and emergency responders across the state,” said Thomas Gleeson, PUCT Executive Director. “These updates and additional map layers will further strengthen our ability to maintain the reliability of critical infrastructure, respond to incidents during emergencies, and keep Texans safe.”

“The map is one of many steps we take to help ensure residents’ safety during weather emergencies,” said Wei Wang, RRC Executive Director. “The RRC has already begun inspections to ensure natural gas facilities are weatherized and fortified for the winter, similar to last winter. This supply chain map is the first of its kind in the nation and has proven to be a valuable tool for emergency management personnel to triage, respond, and collaborate real-time during emergencies. It’s all part of the extensive work state agencies undertake in our mission to protect Texans.”