CPS Energy Prepares for Winter with Enhanced Infrastructure and Predictions

CPS Energy has announced its winter forecast, indicating a season that is likely to be warm and dry for the San Antonio area. During a briefing at the utility’s downtown headquarters on December 1, 2025, CPS Energy President and CEO Rudy Garza assured the public that both personnel and equipment have undergone thorough preparations for any potential weather challenges.

Garza stated, “We are ready for anything that Mother Nature has to throw at us, but I’m proud of the fact that it has been quite some time before we had a winter or summer event that has impacted our customers.” The utility has taken significant steps, including the installation of new smart technology designed to expedite responses to power outages. Additionally, CPS Energy has increased its power capacity through the acquisition of four power plants located in Southeast Texas.

The preparation for this winter comes in light of the severe challenges faced in February 2021, when many residents experienced prolonged outages. Garza highlighted that the San Antonio Water System’s (SAWS) water-pumping plants are now supported by backup generators, reducing the risk of failures that previously left large areas without water. He noted that state support has been instrumental in enhancing the resilience of this infrastructure.

Weather Predictions and Financial Considerations

CPS Energy’s Chief Meteorologist, Brian Alonzo, expects mostly mild conditions for the upcoming winter. “The storm systems are going to stay primarily to our north here, so that kind of leaves us on the warm side,” he explained. Alonzo attributed this forecast to the La Niña phenomenon, which he believes will insulate the San Antonio region from the worst impacts of severe winter weather.

Despite the optimistic outlook, Alonzo cautioned that fluctuations in the jet stream could introduce some Arctic air into the area. He noted, “We could see some warm temperatures, above-average temperatures are expected. However, there is a possibility we get a little bit of a kink in the jet stream.”

Financially, the average winter bill for residents in the San Antonio area is approximately $170, depending on their energy consumption. All-electric customers tend to incur slightly higher costs, a point emphasized by Garza during the briefing.

While about 60% of CPS Energy’s infrastructure is underground—offering increased protection from harsh weather conditions—Garza acknowledged that repairs could take longer if issues arise due to the complexities involved in excavation.

As CPS Energy prepares for the winter months ahead, the organization appears confident in its readiness to maintain reliable energy and water services for the San Antonio community. With improved infrastructure and a carefully monitored weather outlook, the utility aims to keep disruptions to a minimum.