ERCOT power market redesign could make consumers a 'big loser'

Public Utility Commission Chairman Peter Lake speaks during an interview in his office on Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 in Austin, TX. Lake spoke about the state of the energy situation in Texas and how they are looking for ways to give Texans energy without interruptions or losses. (Sergio Flores/Houston Chronicle)

Sergio Flores/Contributor

Lawmakers on Thursday questioned the findings of a report that would serve as the basis for redesigning the state's power markets, calling some of the study's assumptions about the operation of the state's power grid flawed.

The hearing by the state Senate's Business and Commerce Committee represented the first opportunity for lawmakers and industry insiders to weigh in on the study, published last week, and the Public Utility Commission’s proposals for revamping wholesale power markets.