Feature Articles

 

 
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CenterPoint Energy in action on Galveston Island

​ When CenterPoint Energy talks about becoming the most resilient coastal grid in the nation - Galveston is one of those critical coastal communities. Weather-related threats to CenterPoint’s electrical infrastructure stretch across the company’s 12-county service area, but Galveston faces an even tougher challenge, as hurricanes tend to strike the coast with greater intensity of wind and storm surge, making resiliency efforts there especially critical.

“The purpose behind this initiative is simple: we’ve listened to our customers, we understand what they need, and we’re committed to making it happen,” said Nathan Brownell, CenterPoint's Vice President Resilience and Capital Delivery. “Across our service territory, we’re investing in resiliency to strengthen the grid, improve reliability, and better prepare for the challenges ahead. These efforts reflect our long-term commitment to safety, innovation, and delivering the dependable service our communities count on— especially when it matters most.”

In the Galveston service area alone, as part of the Greater Houston Resiliency Initiative, (GHRI) CenterPoint has installed more than 900 stronger, storm-resilient poles built to withstand 132 mph winds, undergrounded approximately 10 miles of powerlines to reduce exposure to severe weather, cleared more than 130 miles of high-risk vegetation, and deployed at least four automated reliability and intelligent grid switching devices to minimize outages and speed restoration. Galveston Service Area Manager Ryan Duggan and his team have been on the frontlines of this critical resiliency work on Galveston Island.

“Our goal with these resiliency projects through the greater Galveston area is to cut down on outage times and strengthen the grid for the long haul,” said CenterPoint Energy Galveston Service Area Manager Ryan Duggan. “We’re investing in smarter, stronger infrastructure because we know how much reliable power means to our customers, and we are committed to building a system that can better withstand whatever the coast throws our way.”

A majority of Duggan’s team has been with CenterPoint Energy for several years and live in the Galveston Service Area, which serves more than 78,000 homes and businesses.

“Many of our crew members live in the same neighborhoods they serve, and that makes a real difference. They’re not just restoring power – they're helping their own communities stay strong and bounce back faster when storms hit.” added Duggan.

Galveston County presents a unique opportunity to strengthen CenterPoint Energy’s electrical infrastructure against coastal challenges, particularly corrosion caused by salt air and humidity. To address these conditions, fiberglass storm-resilient poles and intelligent grid switching devices with corrosion-resistant bolts are key investments to protect the area. These upgrades are designed to withstand the coastal atmosphere and improve restoration times following severe weather.

As CenterPoint Energy continues to strengthen its coastal infrastructure, Galveston stands as a clear example of how smart investments and community-driven crews can make a lasting impact. With technologies built to withstand the island’s harsh conditions and teams who live and work in the area, these resiliency efforts are helping ensure Galveston is better equipped to weather future storms and recover faster - building a stronger grid and a stronger community, right where it matters most.

Investments in our community and strengthening the grid are tangible. Outside of extreme weather, outage minutes have dropped by approximately 40% compared to the same period in 2024. CenterPoint’s work in our 12-county service area continues as we prioritize safety and our customers as we work towards our goal of having the most resilient coastal grid in the nation.

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2025-09-25T05:00:00Z
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Powering the world’s game: CenterPoint Energy begins to prepare Houston for FIFA World Cup 2026

The excitement in Houston is reaching new heights. Following FIFA's updated match schedule, fans across the world now know which national teams will take the field in our city during the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Houston will host seven matches at NRG stadium and the group stage feature some of the world's most recognized teams, such as Germany, Portugal and the Netherlands. These matchups will draw thousands of fans from around the globe, making Houston a centerpiece of one of the largest and most anticipated tournaments in World Cup history.

Our Role in Keeping Houston Connected
From the NRG stadium and multiple training facilities to hotels, fan zones, and the vibrant downtown where celebrations and fan fests will take place, reliable energy will be essential to the success of this historic event. CenterPoint is proactively safeguarding electric and natural gas distribution across the city. We're ensuring infrastructure serving critical venues is prepped for peak performance, making sure backup systems are ready, and monitoring the grid to handle increased demand from the thousands of visitors from around the world. Even traffic signals and street lighting in downtown Houston will play a vital role in keeping fans safe and the city moving. To achieve this, we will be working closely with local and federal partners on security and operational readiness.

A Commitment to Houston's Economic Growth
Hosting the World Cup is more than a sporting milestone, it's an economic catalyst for our region. By ensuring energy reliability, CenterPoint Energy is helping Houston attract visitors, support local businesses, and deliver an unforgettable experience for millions of fans worldwide.

“The World Cup is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Houston. Our team is committed to powering every moment, whether it's the lights at the stadium, the hotels hosting international guests, or the fan festivals downtown. We're proud and ready to play a critical role in making this event a success." said Jason Fabre, Vice President of Electric Operations.

Resiliency That Makes a Difference
Our preparations build on the investments made through the Greater Houston Resilience Initiative (GHRI), a program launched after Hurricane Beryl to harden the grid against extreme weather. From installing storm-resilient poles that withstand winds up to 132 mph to accelerating vegetation management and upgrading underground systems, these improvements have already reduced outage minutes by 40% in the 12-county area we are priviledged to serve.

"Behind these upgrades are thousands of dedicated CenterPoint Energy employees and contractors who make resiliency possible. Their expertise and commitment ensure that when the world comes to Houston, our energy infrastructure is stronger, smarter, and supported by a team prepared for any challenge." added Fabre.

As the countdown begins, CenterPoint Energy stands ready to deliver the safe, reliable energy that will keep Houston connected and thriving during this global celebration. Because when the world comes to play, Houston—and CenterPoint Energy—will be ready.

2025-12-08T06:00:00Z
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Inside CenterPoint Energy’s Natural Gas Training: Safety, Skill, and Service

​​CenterPoint Energy’s Hiram O. Clarke (HOC) Training Center is helping shape the future of natural gas operations and service. Led by experienced trainers like Erasmo Rivera, one training program sounds like a dance move, but the tapping and stopping program is a critical service for safely delivering natural gas to homes and businesses.

“Tapping and stopping is how we access our main gas lines and deliver gas to our customers,” said Rivera, a Construction Trainer with 25 years of experience at CenterPoint. “We make a controlled opening in the main line to either shut off gas in an emergency or connect a newly installed section.”

The process is crucial for the safe and effective delivery of gas and is also complex and not without risk.  That’s why CenterPoint invests in a comprehensive four-year training program that starts with new hires and gradually builds in intensity and detail. While trainees are deployed into the field for real-world experience throughout the program, they will be fully equipped and certified to perform tapping and stopping by their fourth year. 
Training at the HOC is hands-on, with classroom time tailored to each group’s experience level. Rivera, who spent 18 years in the field before becoming a trainer, says the program has evolved significantly. “It’s a huge advantage for our trainees. They’re learning the right way, the safe way. But safety isn’t just a one-time lesson, it’s a discipline that requires constant practice. That’s why we emphasize polishing our skills and staying sharp through ongoing training. Safety is our top priority!”

Beyond technical skills, Rivera sees training as a foundation for leadership, accountability and excellence. “This goes beyond our job. This is where we build great leaders, build strong teams, and develop employees who take pride in doing this the right way. When you invest in training, you’re investing in the culture of safety, service and professionalism that defines CenterPoint Energy.”

A Message to Our Customers

Rivera also wants customers to know that natural gas operations take time for a reason. “Be patient with us. It’s a slow process because we’re focused on safety—for our crews and for you.” And if you ever think you smell natural gas? Leave immediately on foot. Once you are safely away from the area, report the possible natural gas leak to 911 and call CenterPoint at 713-659-2111 or 800-752-8036.


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2025-08-22T05:00:00Z
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Spreading Holiday Cheer: Christmas Angels Visit the Phoenix Nursing Home
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​​ Spreading Holiday Cheer: Christmas Angels Visit the Phoenix Nursing Home - December 2025 

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​This holiday season, our team embraced the true spirit of giving with a heartfelt initiative, Christmas Angels for The Phoenix Nursing Home in Texas City. On Friday, Dec.12, volunteers from across our organization came together to deliver gifts and joy to the 85 residents of The Phoenix Post-Acute nursing home.

It all started with one simple request from the residents: a visit from Santa. Answering that call, the CenterPoint volunteers arrived with gifts, smiles, and a special appearance by Santa Ray, also known as Raymond Garrett, who serves as a Substation Project Manager at CenterPoint Energy. Santa Ray led the caravan in a bucket truck provided by the Galveston Service Center crew.

“The holidays remind us how impactful it is to give back to the community," said Santa Ray. “For CenterPoint Energy employees, these moments are just as meaningful for us as they are for the residents. We take pride in being more than a utility provider. We're neighbors who care. Supporting initiatives like this reflects our company's commitment to strengthening the communities we serve and making a positive difference beyond delivering energy."

Residents spent the afternoon enjoying cookies with Santa Ray and listening to holiday music. Every resident also received a personalized gift from their holiday wish list including cozy blankets, warm socks, snacks, and small keepsakes that reflected their interests.
Like this event, CenterPoint Energy employees volunteer throughout the year in various capacities across the communities we serve—from supporting local food banks and schools to participating in environmental stewardship programs. These efforts reflect our ongoing commitment to building stronger, more resilient communities and creating meaningful connections beyond our core mission of providing safe, reliable energy.

We were proud to see so many team members join us in making this day special. Your presence helped make the season brighter for those who needed it most.​

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2025-12-12T06:00:00Z