Drilling for renewables in Texas

As if it wasn’t enough that Texas has some of the best wind resource, best solar resource, and largest shale oil and gas deposits in the world, the Lone Star State also has a great geothermal resource. Unlike the others resources, though, geothermal is yet to be tapped. That’s about to change.

The Texas Geothermal Alliance launched last year and has grown to nearly 50 members including major oil and gas companies, power generators, and pure play geothermal companies. 

 On Episode 4 of the Texas Power Podcast, host Doug Lewin is joined by Barry Smitherman, TxGEA’s chairman and president. Barry’s not new to the energy world in Texas though. He’s the only Texan to ever chair both the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Railroad Commission (which regulates oil and gas). He literally has a unique perspective.

Barry and Doug talked about geothermal and how perfectly suited it is to a state that has drilled—get this—one million wells. They also discussed the ongoing PUC market design debates and discussions which are reaching a sort of crescendo as the PUC drives toward a January 12 decision just two days after the Texas Legislature gavels in for their biennial regular session.

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The Texas Power Podcast is a production of Renewable Energy World and Clarion Energy. Check out our podcast for the solar industry, Factor This!

You can connect with Texas Power Podcast host Doug Lewin on Twitter and LinkedIn.