For The First Time, Wind Power Tops Coal For Electricity Generation In Texas

During the first half of 2019, wind accounted for 22% of Texas’ electricity generation; coal was 21%.

By Alexandra HartJuly 29, 2019 10:36 am,

The winds of change have been blowing in the energy industry for some time, as renewables gain a foothold in the Lone Star State. But last week, the Electrical Reliability Council of Texas, or ERCOT, reported that, for the first time ever, wind power has surpassed coal in producing electricity in Texas.

Matt Smith is director of commodity research at ClipperData. He says wind power has generated 22% of the state’s electrical needs during the first half of the year, overtaking coal, which provided 21%.

What you’ll hear in this segment:

– How this represents a big change in the Texas energy mix

– Why wind-power use has increased dramatically

– How the Texas trend relates to national energy trends

 

Written by Shelly Brisbin.