Letter to Senator

Dear Senator or Representative,

I am writing to respectfully submit key concerns regarding the safety, reliability, and security of the Texas electric grid and associated infrastructure, particularly as they affect the citizens of Rains County, Texas.

As Texas continues to expand its energy portfolio, it is critical that we carefully evaluate the risks associated with supply chain dependencies and emerging technologies connected to our grid.

Primary Concern

There is increasing reliance on foreign-manufactured electronic components-particularly from nations identified as strategic adversaries, including China, Russia, and Iran. This continues  despite the Lone Star Infrastructure Act banning such sources . These components are widely used in solar, wind, and battery energy storage systems (BESS), raising concerns about cybersecurity vulnerabilities, remote access risks, and potential disruption to grid operations.

Key Issues Identified

1. Supply Chain Vulnerability
   The Texas grid increasingly depends on imported components, particularly from China. This creates potential exposure to foreign interference and limits transparency in system integrity.
2. Grid Reliability and Stability
   Intermittent energy sources require full backup from dispatchable power. This adds complexity to grid management and may increase the risk of instability during peak demand or extreme weather events.
3. Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Risks
   Large-scale lithium-ion battery systems carry known risks of fire and thermal runaway. These events are difficult to control and pose serious threats to our community that are devastating and long lasting once they occur. Rains County does not have adequate water to contain or extinguish such fires.  Data indicates at least 63 major global energy storage failure incidents between 2011 and 2023, with the United States among the highest reported. The precautionary principle needs to be applied. Rains County  lakes will be contaminated  with “forever” PFAS chemicals used for such fires and heavy metals. These lakes supply drinking water to Dallas and surrounding cities so effects will be widespread.
4. Impact on Rural Communities
   Rural areas such as Rains County bear a disproportionate share of environmental, safety, and land-use burdens associated with large-scale energy projects, while benefits are often distributed elsewhere.
5. Environmental and Health Considerations
   Potential exposure to toxic emissions during battery or infrastructure failures presents ongoing concerns, particularly in Rains County that has inadequate emergency response resources for such fires or explosions . 

Recommendations

• Conduct comprehensive supply chain audits for all grid-connected infrastructure
• Increase transparency and local oversight in project approval processes.
• Establish continuous monitoring and evaluation protocols for grid security
• Prioritize reliable, dispatchable energy sources to ensure grid stability

Conclusion

The State of Texas has long been a leader in energy independence and innovation. To maintain that leadership, it is essential that we prioritize a grid that is secure, reliable, and SAFE  for all Texans—especially those in rural communities who are most directly impacted.

Thank you for your time and consideration of these important issues.

Respectfully,

Rains County, Texas