Texas Cybersecurity Monitor Program
In 2019, the Texas Legislature passed Texas Senate Bill 936 (S.B. 936), which amended the Texas Utilities Code to provide for a cybersecurity monitor for certain electric utilities. Following S.B. 936, Section 39.1516 of the Texas Utilities Code provides that the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) and ERCOT contract with an entity to act as the PUCT’s cybersecurity monitor. The cybersecurity monitor is tasked with managing a cybersecurity outreach program, communicating emerging threats and best business practices, reviewing cybersecurity self-assessments, researching and developing best business practices for cybersecurity, and reporting to the PUCT on cybersecurity preparedness for "monitored utilities" (Texas Cybersecurity Monitor Program). In addition to monitored utilities, an electric utility, municipally owned utility, or electric cooperative operating solely outside the ERCOT region (non-ERCOT utility) may elect to participate in the Texas Cybersecurity Monitor Program.
The fee for a non-ERCOT utility to participate in the Texas Cybersecurity Monitor Program for the 2025 calendar year is $3,849.03.
Registration
In order for a non-ERCOT utility to participate in the Texas Cybersecurity Monitor Program for the 2025 calendar year:
- File a notice of intent to participate in the Texas Cybersecurity Monitor Program with the PUCT
- Complete and submit the Texas Cybersecurity Monitor Program Application and Agreement for the 2025 Calendar Year to ERCOT
- Pay ERCOT the nonrefundable $3,849.03 fee
- Review P.U.C. Subst. R. § 25.367 adopted in PUCT Project No. 49819, Rulemaking relating to Cybersecurity Monitor