Becky Motal, general manager of the Lower Colorado River Authority, announced Wednesday that she will retire at the end of this year.
Energy
In-depth reporting on oil, gas, renewable power, and policies shaping the future of energy in Texas from The Texas Tribune.
Posted in
Energy
As Austin’s Lakes Dwindle, Gulf Coast Residents May Suffer
As the Highland Lakes that supply Austin drop to near-historic lows, the Lower Colorado River Authority is considering cutting off flows to Matagorda Bay. But officials on the Gulf Coast say the move could devastate the economy.
Posted in
Energy
Austin Gets High Marks for Energy-Efficient Policies
Austin is among the large U.S. cities doing the most to conserve energy, according to a study released Tuesday by a national group that promotes energy efficiency.
Posted in
Energy
Book Excerpt: How the Public Got Behind Texas Wind Power
The renewable-energy epiphany that launched Texas wind power came through an unexpected channel: public opinion polls in the mid-1990s. An excerpt from The Great Texas Wind Rush.
Posted in
Energy
For Texas, Colorado Floods a Reminder to Plan Ahead
Environmental experts say the severe flooding in parched Colorado proves that just because drought-stricken states like Texas haven’t seen that kind of weather in years doesn’t mean it’s gone for good.
Posted in
Energy
UT Scientists Measure Methane Emissions From Fracking
University of Texas at Austin researchers have released new estimates of methane emissions from the production of natural gas wells. The data could affect regulations on hydraulic fracturing for natural gas.
Posted in
Energy
Book Excerpt: “Go Get Smart on Wind”
In 1996, then-Gov. George W. Bush shocked his Public Utility Commission chairman by endorsing wind power. A decade later, Texas would become the nation’s top wind-energy producer. An excerpt from The Great Texas Wind Rush.
Posted in
Criminal Justice
In Texas, Fight Over Water Spills Underground
A recent court ruling in Texas has fueled an already fiery debate over whether groundwater resources can be adequately protected alongside property rights and economic development.
Posted in
Energy
To Save Energy, Groups Call for a New Texas Building Code
In energy-guzzling Texas, a group of environmental advocates and business leaders is calling a for new statewide energy building code.
Posted in
Energy
Video: On Guadalupe River, Tubers and Consumers Face Low Flows
Many Texans gauge the health of the Guadalupe River by the speed of their tubing trip. Given the drought conditions plaguing most of the state, people come prepared to walk. On a broader scale, the shallow spots are indicative of the growing demand on the spring-fed water source.