A dozen or more chemical plants in Texas are moving forward with expansion projects, spurred by the cheap natural gas created by hydraulic fracturing. But the boom is also raising concerns about water and air pollution.
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
Decision to Allow Booze at Alamo Draws Criticism
The Daughters of the Republic of Texas, which controlled the site until a year ago, has called the decision disrespectful to the memory of the Alamo.
Posted inEnergy, Environment
Slideshow: The Drilling Boom in Midland
Midland lies at the heart of a region that produces 14 percent of the world’s oil. With oil prices above $80 a barrel on the world market, the area is experiencing a major boom. But the growth has also strained Midland like never before.
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Energy
Slideshow: The Drilling Boom in Midland
Midland lies at the heart of the Permian Basin, a region that produces 14 percent of the nation’s oil — and with oil prices high, the place is booming. But the rapid growth has also strained this once tight-knit community as never before.
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Energy
Midland’s Latest Oil Boom Has Side Effects
Midland has always thought of itself as a small town, but an oil boom is rapidly reshaping the area. Housing as expensive (and hard to find) as New York City’s has become the norm, and the strain is evident on schools and roads.
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Energy
Land Office, Agriculture Department Facing Federal Suit
The U.S. Department of Justice is suing the Texas General Land Office and the Texas Department of Agriculture, alleging that the agencies are liable for pay discrimination against three women.
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Energy
Land Commissioner Touts Desalination Plan for Central Texas
Desalination, the process of removing salt from water, may bring to mind a plant on the coast sucking in salty seawater and dispensing fresh water. But Texas Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson has a plan to bring desalination hundreds of miles inland, to thirsty Central Texas.
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Energy
Amid Cattle Deaths, an Agricultural Mystery
The sudden death of 15 cows on a Central Texas pasture in May was more than a tragedy for the rancher. It marked the beginning of a search for answers that has pointed directly to the grass on which the cows were grazing.
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Energy
Soot is an Underrated Threat, Scientists Say
Soot gets less attention in Texas than the big daddy of air pollution, ozone. But scientists say that it is a growing threat for Texans, and the Environmental Protection Agency is tightening standards.
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Energy
Heated Arguments
While advocates worry particularly about heat conditions in a prison unit with recent water shortages, the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals is considering arguments in a lawsuit against the Texas Department of Criminal Justice alleging that the sweltering living quarters constitute cruel and unusual punishment.