Abbott Calls Texas 'the Energy Capital of the World'

Texas Governor Greg Abbott (R) is ready to see Texas lead the world when it comes to energy. With President Donald Trump (R) heading to the White House, Republicans like Governor Abbott see an ally for energy independence in the president-elect. Governor Abbott announced that Texas is "the energy capital of the world" and that it would be building an advanced nuclear power industry.

Governor Abbott, in partnership with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT), announced that the state will be building "a world-leading advanced nuclear power industry to enhance electric reliability and energy security, promote economic development, and unleash new opportunities for the growing Texas workforce."

Last year, Governor Abbott called for the PUCT to develop a working group that would study and plan for the use of advanced nuclear reactors in the Lone Star state. Since then, the group has posited recommendations and strategies that would position the state as No. 1 in the advanced nuclear industry.

In a statement, Governor Abbott explained that "by utilizing advanced nuclear energy, Texas will enhance the reliability of the state grid and provide affordable, dispatchable power to Texans across the state." Thanking the work that the PUCT and the members of the Texas Advanced Nuclear Reactor Working Group has done, Governor Abbot affirmed that their efforts will "put Texas on the path to be the global leader in advanced nuclear power." "As we build an advanced nuclear industry in our great state, we will ensure Texas remains a leader in energy and strengthen the Texas grid to meet the demands of our growing state," he concluded.

PUCT Commissioner Jimmy Glotfelty also released a statement, sharing that "Texas has long been the energy capital of the world, " and with their new effort, they will "deliver safe, reliable power for generations to come." "The economic and policy recommendations we've outlined will inspire swift action and help Texas become the leader in advanced nuclear energy," he added.