Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has announced the state's readiness to construct natural gas power plants if private investments don't materialize.
Claire Hao reports for the Houston Chronicle.
In short:
- Texas is courting investors for natural gas power plant construction, with a potential state-led initiative as a backup plan.
- The state aims to add 10 gigawatts of natural gas power, enough for two million homes, through the Texas Energy Fund.
- Concerns arise over the impact of state involvement on private sector investment and the balance with renewable energy growth.
Key quote:
"If we can't get an incentive program to attract investors to build, then the state would have to build [more gas-fueled power infrastructure] ourselves."
— Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick
Why this matters:
This move by Texas could set a precedent in state intervention in energy markets, with significant implications for both the environment and public policy.
From 2020: As courts stall or stop some major pipelines, the Permian Highway Pipeline in Texas is plowing ahead—and fears over water pollution have already become reality.
