Over the past twelve months from July 2025 to June 2026, Texas's electricity consumption pattern clearly demonstrates a strong reliance on fossil fuels, with more than half of its electricity, specifically about 59%, being generated from fossil sources such as gas and coal. Gas alone accounts for around 48% of the electricity mix. On the brighter side, low-carbon energy is gaining ground, making up just over 41% of the total electricity generation. Wind energy, at more than a fifth of the total generation, and solar power, contributing a little over 12%, are leading the way within the low-carbon category. Nuclear energy, which is crucial for a clean energy transition, comprises close to 7%, signaling a moderate yet important role in minimizing carbon emissions.

Is Electricity Growing in Texas?

Texas is seeing growth in its electricity consumption, hitting a new record in 2026, with about 19,065 kWh consumed per person, up by 292 kWh from the previous high in 2025. This upward trend highlights the expanding energy needs of the state, driven by population growth and increased electrification. Encouragingly, low-carbon electricity generation has also risen, reaching 7,871 kWh per person, marking an increase of 400 kWh from the 2025 record. This growth in clean energy is a positive development and underscores the importance of continued investment in sustainable energy sources to meet future demand while reducing carbon footprints.

Suggestions

To further increase the share of low-carbon electricity, Texas should capitalize on its existing strengths in wind and solar energy. Expanding these sectors can significantly contribute to meeting the state's growing electricity needs sustainably. Looking at successful regions, Texas can learn valuable lessons from states such as Iowa and South Dakota, where wind generates about 57% and 56% of electricity, respectively. Similarly, California's effective utilization of solar power, providing 31% of its electricity, can serve as a benchmark for solar expansion in Texas. Additionally, Texas should consider the benefits of nuclear energy as seen in countries like France and states like South Carolina, where nuclear accounts for more than half of their electricity generation. Expanding nuclear energy can provide a reliable and sustainable foundation for the state's electricity grid.

History

Throughout its history, Texas has seen notable shifts in low-carbon electricity generation. For instance, the early 2020s witnessed significant wind energy growth, such as an increase of 4.4 TWh in 2024 and 5.2 TWh in 2025. However, the nuclear sector in Texas experienced a worrying decline in 2024 with a decrease of 2.1 TWh and again in 2026 with a reduction of 1.4 TWh. This decline in nuclear electricity generation should be addressed with urgency, given its critical role in providing clean and reliable electricity. Investing in nuclear and further doubling down on wind and solar will not only help Texas meet its current and future electricity needs but also establish the state as a leader in clean energy innovation.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (Jul 2025 – Jun 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.