Energy

Russian hackers are probing Texas' energy infrastructure for weak points to steal information or disrupt operations, raising cybersecurity concerns since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Texas power grid and energy sector face elevated threats, with potential consequences including power outages, halted oil and gas shipments, and refinery disruptions.

An Afghan immigrant family in Plano received solar panel installation assistance from Solar United Neighbors and Habitat for Humanity. After immigrating to the U.S. in 2015, they partnered with these organizations for renewable energy benefits. The project was supported by RISE Power and praised by Plano Solar Advocates.

Texas disputes NRC's approval of a high-level radioactive waste facility in West Texas, contradicting recent state law. Environmentalists and local groups contest the site's legality and safety, citing risks to the Ogallala Aquifer and on-route cities. Critics also challenge the site's "temporary" status amidst broader nuclear waste challenges.

Texas has enacted a law, signed by Gov. Abbott, to ban storage of highly radioactive waste, aiming to block Waste Control Specialists' plan near Andrews County. Despite this, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission is progressing with a license application for the site.

Gas and electric suppliers face an uncertain future, which Amory Lovins of the Rocky Mountain Institute considers positive. At the North Texas Renewable Energy Group meeting, he'll discuss upcoming energy industry disruptions driven by innovations, advocating for a transition to renewable energy over reliance on oil and gas.

After moving to Midlothian, Laura Hunt's daughter developed a severe respiratory condition, prompting Hunt to investigate potential links to local cement plant emissions. She founded Midlothian Breathe, a group advocating for DIY air monitoring using low-cost sensors to track air quality and hold polluters accountable.

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.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott falsely blames green energy for power outages during a winter storm, while experts point to fossil fuel disruptions as the main cause. Politicians, often during crises, avoid accountability to maintain their image. Texas' energy handling during the storm has drawn criticism from Democrats and sparked political debate.

Four Texas Democrats opposed Biden’s pause on new oil and gas leases on federal lands, arguing it harms jobs and the economy. Despite supporting the Paris climate deal, they urge reevaluation of the order, advocating balanced policies addressing climate change while protecting jobs.

Lawmakers are considering using treated wastewater from oil fields to replenish Texas aquifers, following an EPA decision that allows the state to regulate water discharges. While some see potential benefits, scientists and environmental groups express concerns about risks and sufficiency of existing standards.