Energy

Texas lawmakers propose a bill to ban high-level radioactive waste in response to a nuclear waste storage plan in West Texas. The bill would reduce state fees for the company's existing lower-risk waste facility, raising concerns from environmentalists about financial impacts on safety and cleanup funds.

Dallas youth protested against Comstock Resources, owned by Jerry Jones, accusing them of profiting from Texas' winter storm by exploiting high gas prices. The Sunrise Movement Dallas urged action against companies benefiting from climate issues, demanding utility bill forgiveness and a shift to a green economy.

A climate-focused Dallas youth coalition, including the Sunrise Movement, rallied outside Rep. Marc Veasey’s office, urging support for the Green New Deal and opposing his stance on Biden’s halted oil and gas leases. They criticize Veasey's fossil fuel ties and demand action on economic, racial, and environmental issues.

Hurry to car showrooms as Texas' electric vehicle rebate ends January 7. Buyers can get up to $2,500 for battery-electric or plug-in hybrids, but Tesla is excluded. EV popularity is rising, with models offering 250+ miles on a charge and a growing number of charging stations nationwide.

Molly Rooke, a Dallas Sierra Club activist, encountered hazardous abandoned oil wells on her family ranch. A Texas judge halted the Texas Railroad Commission's COVID-19 waivers for oil and gas companies, which bypassed environmental rules. Public Citizen's lawsuit emphasizes landowner rights and cleanup responsibilities amid industry bankruptcies.

In the final presidential debate, Trump focused on economic priorities regarding the oil industry, while Biden emphasized the transition to renewable energy, calling climate change an existential threat. The debate touched on the impact of energy policies on jobs and pollution concerns, reflecting deep divisions in their approaches.

The 11th annual DFW Solar Tour goes virtual on Oct. 3 due to COVID-19. The free event offers online tours, professional videos, and live Q&A sessions about renewable energy with featured locations and experts. It educates on solar energy adoption, emphasizing sustainability and reducing carbon footprint.

A fracking watchdog group in Arlington opposes the approval of seven new gas wells at the Rocking Horse site without public input. The site, near a daycare, required only administrative approval due to a 2013 permit. The group urges public hearings, citing health risks and demanding stricter setbacks.

Over the past decade, Texas reduced environmental protection funding by 35% despite increased industrial activity. This ranks Texas second among 30 states in funding cuts, which occurred as state revenue grew. The Environmental Integrity Project highlights that cuts coincide with federal efforts to shift more environmental oversight to states.

Acre Distilling in Fort Worth, founded by Tony Formby in 2015, will soon be entirely powered by solar energy. Inspired by environmental concerns, Formby partnered with Circle L Solar to install over 350 solar panels. The Green Acre Initiative also includes biodegradable products, a recycling program, and electric car charging stations.