Get the Big Picture:

1. Texas — An Energy Leader
2. Texas Now Imports Energy
3. Texas Energy Use — Today and Tomorrow
4. Our Future Depends on New Energy
   
5. Texas — A Potential Giant
6. Make a Commitment
7. References
   
   

Texas Energy Use — Today and Tomorrow

Although Texas is home to just seven percent of the U.S. population, the state accounts for about 12 percent of the nation's total energy consumption. Texas uses more electricity, natural gas, coal and oil than any other state. And demand for energy, particularly electricity, is increasing. Since 1970, residential use of electricity has nearly tripled. Most of the state's electricity is now generated by burning coal.

However, much of the growing demand for energy in Texas and around the world can be met with clean, politically secure, renewable energy. Wind-powered turbines, solar panels and fuels derived from agriculture products (biomass) are well suited to our state. Currently, less than one percent of the state's energy needs are provided by renewable energy sources.

In just 40 years, Texas could be importing more than 80 percent of the energy required to meet its needs. Imports will make the state—and the U.S. as a whole—highly vulnerable to price fluctuations and political upheaval in the Middle East and other oil producing regions.