Call it the Texas two-step: State dances with power disaster — and batteries needed to ride to the rescue

Renewables are a strong force in the Lone Star State, but are part of a shaky grid.

Solar panels and wind turbines in Texas. Photo: Jonathan Cutrer/flickr.

The bad news: It’s sunny in Texas, leading to temperatures as high as 115°F. in the current heatwave. The good news: It’s sunny in Texas, leading to a record amount of solar power — 8 GWs, according to grid operator ERCOT — that is helping to keep the air conditioners running.

But tha…