The big picture
The generators are a part of CenterPoint Energy’s Community Generator Donation Program, aimed at improving resiliency during major storm events or other emergencies, county and CenterPoint officials announced at a March 14 news conference.
June Deadrick, vice president of community relations at CenterPoint Energy, said the generators will be placed across the county in the following two key areas:
- Landmark Community Center in Missouri City
- Pecan Grove Sports Complex in Richmond
The generators are two of the 21 the company will spread across its 12-county service area, Deadrick said. The donation program is being funded through a $5 million grant from the CenterPoint Energy Foundation at no cost to customers.
“We are building the electric grid that can take a punch and get right back up,” she said. “All of these actions will benefit our local communities, will help reduce outages for our customers during major storms and when we have outages.”
In their own words
Fort Bend County Judge KP George said county officials are committed to making the area more resilient to handle hurricanes and other emergencies.
The generators will support warming and cooling shelters or serve as water and food distribution sites during emergencies, officials said.
“Our top priority is ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our citizens,” he said. “These generators will ensure that vital services remain operational when our residents need it most, and these efforts will strengthen our emergency response infrastructure and improve our ability to support our residents during disasters."
Zooming out
After 2.2 million customers were left without power during Hurricane Beryl last July, CenterPoint launched its three-phased Greater Houston Resiliency Initiative aimed at strengthening the city’s infrastructure, improving the company’s communication with the public and developing stronger community partnerships, Community Impact reported.
The plan hits its 50% mark this month, with completion expected by June 1, ahead of the 2025 hurricane season, Community Impact reported.
Looking ahead
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
