Amid a backlash, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and a chorus of state senators said the process of building new high-voltage transmission lines โ which they created in 2023 โ needs to be changed as the oil and gas industry faces an electricity shortage.
Energy
In-depth reporting on oil, gas, renewable power, and policies shaping the future of energy in Texas from The Texas Tribune.
Posted in
Environment
Paxton lawsuit prompts end of federal endangered species protection for Texas lizard
The stateโs attorney general sued the Biden administration in 2024, citing incomplete data for the updated endangered status of the Permian Basinโs native dunes sagebrush lizard.
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Energy
ERCOT: Texasโ power grid meeting record demand now, but could falter when it doubles by 2032
Solar and battery power generations have helped bolster ERCOTโs grid, but data center, population and economic growth is slated to surge demand.
Posted in
Energy
Energy agencies want more authority over Texas data centers
The request comes after Gov. Greg Abbott directed the Public Utility Commission of Texas and Electric Reliability Council of Texas to further regulate data centersโ use of the power grid.
Posted in
Energy
Texas imports of Venezuelan oil soar as war chokes off Middle East supply
Gulf Coast refineries are welcoming the surge from Venezuela during the prolonged Strait of Hormuz closure thatโs virtually halted imports from Iraq and Saudi Arabia.
Posted in
Economy
Texarkana region embraces lithium mining potential
Texarkanaโs first lithium symposium marked a milestone for Texas lithium development, laying the groundwork for discussions on critical issues.
Posted in
Energy
Mexico relies heavily on Texas natural gas. The Trump administration could imperil that relationship.
Despite efforts to boost domestic energy production, Mexico will continue to depend on Texas for natural gas, experts said, undermining its stated goals of energy independence.
Posted in
Data Centers in Texas
Texas leads nation in proposed power plants for data centers, which would emit large amounts of greenhouse gases
Nearly half of the power plants planned to supply electricity for data centers would be in Texas. Experts warn they will emit significant pollution that could harm the health of communities nearby.
Posted in
Environment
On the upper Texas coast, many petrochemical facilities may not be prepared for fiercer storms
Galveston County alone is home to 22 refineries and chemical plants. Their level of emergency preparedness varies widely.
Posted in
Data Centers in Texas
San Marcos becomes the first Texas city to ban data centers, testing its local control
As Texas counties have faced hurdles to curb the rapid growth of data center developments, cities could have more success with banning them through their zoning laws, land experts say.