In 2024, electricity consumption in Texas is predominantly fueled by fossil sources, which make up more than half of the total. Specifically, fossil energy, including natural gas and coal, accounts for approximately 64% of electricity consumption, with gas alone representing a significant 52% share. Conversely, low-carbon energy sources, which include wind, solar, and nuclear, constitute almost 36% of the electricity mix. Wind energy leads among the low-carbon sources at about 22%, followed by solar at roughly 7%, and nuclear power contributes close to 7% of the electricity. The presence of these cleaner energy sources highlights Texas's ongoing commitment to diversifying its energy portfolio and reducing its reliance on fossil fuels.
Is Electricity Growing in Texas?
Turning to electricity growth in Texas, the state's pace is promising, although not revolutionary. In 2024, the total electricity consumption per person rose to 18,017 kWh, surpassing the previous record of 17,811 kWh per person in 2023, thus marking an increase of 206 kWh per person. Encouragingly, low-carbon electricity generation also saw an uptick. In 2024, Texans consumed 6,558 kWh of low-carbon electricity per person, setting a new record by exceeding the previous high in 2023 by 351 kWh per person. This upward trend in both overall and low-carbon electricity consumption is heartening as it signifies a positive shift towards clean energy amidst growing demand.
Suggestions
To further bolster low-carbon electricity generation in Texas, an expansion of wind energy, already a substantial component, could be paramount. Iowa's success, generating 63% of its electricity from wind, along with South Dakota's 59%, exemplifies the potential to increase wind capacity further. Simultaneously, there's immense potential in solar expansion and nuclear power. Drawing inspiration from Nevada’s solar dominance and New Hampshire's robust 56% nuclear generation, Texas can integrate learnings to harness these sustainable resources more effectively. Leveraging these technologies ensures that Texas can continue its trajectory towards a cleaner, more sustainable electrical grid.
History
Looking back, the growth of low-carbon electricity in Texas has been driven significantly by wind energy, especially during the 2000s and 2010s. Notable annual increases occurred in 2008, 2010, and 2016, with the latter year seeing a remarkable growth of nearly 13 TWh in wind energy generation. Solar power has been rising sharply since 2020, contributing significantly in 2021 and reaching a noteworthy increase of 11.4 TWh in 2024. The trend underscores a decade of vigorous expansion in clean electricity, reflecting Texas’s commitment to harnessing its abundant natural resources for a sustainable energy future. This history of expansion is heartening and bodes well for future growth, provided that strategic investments in these green technologies continue.