Texas Electricity, Enough for 2030?
Slides with notes to be posted by Oct 7 from 9/18/25 talk at MSU. Texas leads in wind and solar generation with bountiful gas as well as nuclear and coal generation for a diversified demand solution.
Jack Browne, September 18, 2025
presented at Midwestern State University, Lifelong Learning Center Fall Session
Thursday September 18th, I had the honor to present these slides and thoughts over a 90 minute session of the Lifelong Learning Center at MSU as part of their fall 2025 session of classes.
Abstract
By the 1880s, small, localized power systems were emerging, primarily serving urban areas in Texas. During the 20thcentury, the industry consolidated, leading to the formation of large utility companies. These utilities, vertically integrated, controlled generation, transmission, and distribution.
Deregulation of the Texas electricity market occurred during the 1990’s. This reform aimed to introduce competition and lower consumer costs. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) was established to manage the state’s power grid, ensuring reliability and balancing supply and demand. Today, ERCOT oversees a complex system fueled primarily by natural gas, followed by wind and coal.
Texas faces substantial growth in electricity demand over the next decade:
5 million new residents.
Hyperscale data centers and cryptocurrency mining operations add to tax base, but need power
Electrification of oil and gas operations increases demand, while reducing risk of fire and blackouts.
Increasing popularity of EVs adds significant load, especially during peak periods.
To capitalize on emerging opportunities and sustain the “Texas Miracle”, we must pursue all energy solutions:
Texas leadership in small modular reactor (SMR) technology could provide a clean, reliable, and scalable energy source.
Maximizing the monetization of Texas’s abundant energy resources, including natural gas, wind, solar, and hydrogen drives economic growth and strengthen the state’s position as an energy powerhouse.
By embracing innovation, diversifying its energy mix, and optimizing grid operations, Texas can ensure a reliable and sustainable energy future.
First the end; I’ve attached the slides as one file here:
And the slides with the speakers notes as a second file here:
Authors Note: These detailed notes take time and I’ll update in coming days till completed with individual links for supporting files.
Following are the individual slides and some brief comments as presented.
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