Report: Energy Abundance in Texas

Texas can secure its energy future through proactive investment in infrastructure, a balanced generation portfolio, and policies that embrace growth while managing risks, according to research released on April 17, 2025, authored by Joshua D. Rhodes, PhD and Michael E. Webber, PhD, partners at IdeaSmiths LLC and energy researchers at The University of Texas at Austin.

The report shows that Texas can achieve energy abundance by leveraging its diverse energy resources, an ambitious strategy that would require doubling natural gas capacity, quadrupling wind, and tripling solar by 2035—alongside development of new natural gas with carbon capture, nuclear, and geothermal resources for clean, firm power. With electricity demand projected to rise by 80% by 2035 and total energy consumption by 160%, Texas must act decisively to build sufficient infrastructure.

The report highlights that Texas's energy leadership is already unparalleled, producing 42% of U.S. crude oil, 27% of its natural gas, and leading in wind and solar power. By pursuing energy abundance through an "all-of-the-above" approach, Texas will meet the needs of its booming population and economy and solidify its position as a global leader in energy innovation and supply.

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The Austin-based Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation funded this report.