STRENGTHENING RURAL COMMUNITIES

The wind industry provides an estimated $142 million in annual rural landowner payments as well as an estimated $273 million in state and local taxes and other payments. Small Texas towns, rural communities, farmers, ranchers, school districts and students realize tremendous financial benefits from the billions that have been invested in wind in the state of Texas. The rest of Texas enjoys affordable electricity that is sustainable for the future.

Currently installed renewable energy projects in Texas will generate more than $4.7 billion in new tax revenue to local communities over their lifetime.

POWERING TEXAS MANUFACTURING

Wind energy manufacturing is thriving with 42 active wind-related manufacturing facilities in Texas, and data suggests it will continue to do so for years to come. Texas is at the heart of this manufacturing boom—meaning more jobs, investment, and tax revenue for the Lone Star State from our manufacturing plants to our ports.

RESPONDING TO INCREASING DEMAND

Texas is the fastest growing state in the nation. Demand for affordable, reliable electricity is on the rise, and our electric grid must have the capacity to respond. Texas has over 38,000 megawatts (MW) of installed wind capacity, and more than 16,000 MW of additional wind projects are under construction or in advanced development. Texas is also becoming a major player in solar energy in the U.S. Economic development programs, like the Texas Economic Development Act, have helped spur this growth and given counties across the state the ability to attract these projects.

POWERING THE STATE’S LARGEST EMPLOYERS

Corporate customers have signed contracts for more projects in Texas than any other state, accounting for 39% of all contracted capacity. The volume of companies is also growing; of the 29 companies that announced wind deals in 2019, 18 were first-time buyers of wind energy. A diverse group of companies are purchasing wind energy, including Facebook, Amazon McDonald’s, Walmart, General Motors, and more.

Governor Abbott recognizes the competitive advantage of renewable energy when attracting new businesses to the state: “In Texas, we lead the nation in wind energy. By the end of next year, we will lead the nation in solar power. We have the capability of providing them [businesses] reliable, renewable energy to help them achieve their [carbon neutrality] goals.” – December 2020

WATER CONSERVATION

The electricity generation industry uses more water than any other sector in the United States, including agriculture. Wind energy generation is different because water is not required, which is important in drought-prone regions like West Texas. In 2019, wind-generated energy in Texas prevented the use of roughly 24 billion gallons of water.

CAPPING EMISSIONS

Renewable energy technology is emission free. By generating power from these free and abundant resources, Texas avoided more than 72 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions —equivalent to a year’s worth of emissions from 15.6 million cars. Emissions reduction is a critical element for the needs of future generations and preserving the Texas environment we have known for generations.

Other renewable energy technologies like solar and storage help reduce carbon emissions from electricity generation. Renewables significantly reduce air pollutants, having a positive impact on the health of Texans and reduce costs related to poor air quality.