Warren Buffet is making a play for Texas’ largest electric transmission utility. Berkshire Hathaway, his multinational conglomerate, has unveiled a deal to buy Oncor.
Energy
In-depth reporting on oil, gas, renewable power, and policies shaping the future of energy in Texas from The Texas Tribune.
Lawmaker urged Abbott to veto bill legalizing hot air balloon hog hunting
A Republican lawmaker fears a new Texas law that allows the hunting of wild pigs and coyotes from hot air balloons could lead to “future catastrophes” without increased oversight of commercial ballooning.
The Texas solar industry is growing. Some fear an international trade case could end that.
Cheap, imported solar panels have fueled growth in the solar industry in Texas, and reinvigorated the careers of laid-off oilfield workers. Some industry leaders fear a trade case will increase prices and end that growth.
New in Trib+Water: Zebra mussels found in Lake Travis
In this week’s edition of the Trib+Water newsletter: Zebra mussels are found in Lake Travis, a new approach to wastewater treatment and an interview with Carrie Kasnicka of the Guadalupe-Blanco River Trust.
Amid Texas nuclear waste site’s financial woes, judge blocks merger
A federal judge has blocked the purchase of the company that runs Texas’ only nuclear waste dump — a setback in its proposal to accept spent nuclear fuel from across the country.
New in Trib+Water: Zebra mussels found in Canyon Lake
In this week’s edition of the Trib+Water newsletter: Zebra mussels are found in Canyon Lake, a debate on the benefits of off-channel reservoirs and an interview with Marcus Gary of the Edwards Aquifer Authority.
Will Texas lawmakers ax tree ordinances in more than 50 cities?
Dozens of cities and towns in Texas have ordinances aimed at protecting trees. During the special legislative session, Gov. Greg Abbott wants to change that.
San Antonio pushes to lower emissions despite delayed regulations
After the EPA announced that the implementation of new, stricter standards for ozone levels in the air will be delayed a year, the city of San Antonio is forging ahead with plans to reduce emissions.
After 18 months, hurricane vulnerability documents arrive — but they’re thin
Eighteen months ago, we asked the government for documents that should have shed a lot of light on Houston’s vulnerability to a massive hurricane. After finally receiving them, it turns out the documents are basically useless.
New in Trib+Water: Border wall threatens wetlands
In this week’s edition of the Trib+Water newsletter: Trump’s proposed border wall threatens wetlands in Presidio, a controversy at the comptroller’s office over handling of rare species and an interview with Kate Zerrenner of the Environmental Defense Fund.


