A federal appeals court on Monday handed Texas a victory in its long-running battle with the Environmental Protection Agency. But after years of squabbling between the two sides, who’s winning — and at what cost — remains unclear.
Energy
In-depth reporting on oil, gas, renewable power, and policies shaping the future of energy in Texas from The Texas Tribune.
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Energy
Court Faults EPA’s Rejection of Flexible Permits Program
The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled that the Environmental Protection Agency unfairly disapproved of a Texas permitting program for air emissions. The opinion says the EPA must further consider the program.
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Energy
Amid Lingering Drought, a Sweet Silver Lining
Triple-digit temperatures and parched lands may not be ideal for Texas farmers. But the dry conditions this summer have bestowed an unexpected gift on farmers’ fruit and vegetable crops: enhanced flavor.
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Energy
Concerns Over Air Pollution Weigh on Fracking Industry
Oil and gas production has soared in Texas since the introduction of the mining technique called hydraulic fracturing, or “fracking.” But the boom in production has also raised concerns about air pollution.
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Energy
Study Links Gas Drilling to Earthquakes in Texas
Texans living near the Dallas-Fort Worth drilling area called the Barnett Shale may have recently noticed some tremors under their feet. A new study out this week from the University of Texas names the oil and gas industry as the culprit.
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Energy
Smart Water Meters Take Root in Texas Cities
Across Texas, cities are installing electronic water meters. The transition will save money, officials say, because meter readers will no longer have to go from yard to yard. Plus, the new meters make it easy to detect leaks.
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Energy
Al Armendariz: The TT Interview
The former EPA regional administrator on his decision to resign, why he joined the Sierra Club and why he views climate change as the biggest environmental problem facing Texas.
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Energy
A Solution for Texas’ Power Problems: Saving Electricity at Peak Times
A small number of Texas homeowners are signed up to help the electric grid when it is strained, by allowing their air conditioners to cycle off briefly during the hottest afternoons. It’s a concept that regulators in Austin are eager to spread.
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Energy
Electricity Price Hike Looms, but Cost to Consumers is Unclear
The state-regulated maximum price for wholesale electricity takes a big jump on Wednesday, but whether the cost of higher prices will be passed on to Texas consumers remains unclear.
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Energy
Plans for Coal Plant Stalled as Permit is Denied
A judge this week reversed the air permit for a proposed coal plant in Corpus Christi called Las Brisas, handing environmental groups a victory and dealing a major blow to one of the few such plants still being planned in Texas.