Texas, "leader"? No—follow Cali's clean-green energy policies before it's too late.

Texas: Leading in Renewable Energy, But Falling Behind in Meeting Demand

Texas has long been a beacon of hope for those seeking a better life, but our great state is at a crossroads. [ERCOT] (https://www.ercot.com/content/cdr/2021/cdr_summer2021.pdf projections paint a dire picture: Texas' energy demand is set to explode, increasing by almost double in just six short years. This should be a call to action for policymakers to embrace renewable energy sources and implement forward-thinking policies that protect our environment and ensure a sustainable future for all Texans.

"Texas has the potential to lead the nation in renewable energy, but we must act now to meet the growing demand," said Vance Ginn, Ph.D., President of Ginn Economic Consulting. "By embracing our abundant wind and solar resources, we can power not just our homes but also the emerging industries of cryptocurrency, data centers, and AI, which are the key to a thriving, modern economy."

The expansion of these sectors is integral to our state's economic prosperity. Cryptocurrency, data centers, and AI are the future, and Texas should be at the forefront. However, their energy-intensive nature underscores the urgency of transitioning to renewable energy sources.

Texas has already made significant strides in renewable energy, with wind and solar power contributing heavily to our energy mix. But we cannot rely on this alone. Natural gas, though a reliable backup, has serious environmental consequences and should not be the cornerstone of our energy strategy.

"Texas must break free from the shackles of an outdated energy system that relies on fossil fuels," continued Dr. Ginn. "Nuclear energy offers a promising solution, but it should not be our only option. We must let market competition drive innovation and lower prices for all Texans."

The free market, when properly regulated to prioritize the public good, can be a powerful tool for encouraging innovation and efficiency in energy production. Texas should embrace this opportunity to foster an environment that attracts investment in renewable energy infrastructure.

However, we must be cautious of government overreach and intervention, which often favor established fossil fuel interests over the newer, cleaner energy sector. Texas should reject the Biden administration's misguided "Inflation Reduction Act," which fails to address the very real climate crisis we face and instead prioritizes a flawed green energy agenda.

Texas can lead the nation in renewable energy and economic prosperity, but only if we embrace a future powered by wind, solar, and other renewable sources. It's time for Texas to harness its famous independent spirit and forge a new path toward a sustainable, prosperous future for all.

Vance Ginn, Ph.D., is a prominent economist and the President of Ginn Economic Consulting, based in the vibrant, progressive city of Round Rock.