Supporting Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency in the Lone Star State
Texas is at a crossroads. We lead the nation in wind and solar power, and we have untapped potential to reduce energy waste and cut costs using energy efficiency. But powerful interests and anti-renewable legislation at the Capitol threaten the progress we've made - and the energy future Texans deserve.
Sierra Club Lone Star Chapter is fighting back. We advocate for smart, people-first policies that expand and protect renewable energy and energy efficiency - two of the most powerful tools we have to lower bills, reduce pollution, and improve grid reliability.
What is Renewable Energy?
Renewable energy comes from natural sources that replenish themselves, like sunlight and wind. Unlike other sources of power, renewable energy doesn’t pollute the air or water - and it doesn’t run out.
Why Renewable Energy Matters for Texas
- Texas is #1 in wind production and, second only to California in solar.
- It keeps electricity bills lower by increasing the available amount of energy.
- It improves grid reliability by reducing demand and waste.
- It brings in billions in investments and creates thousands of jobs for the state.
ACTION ALERT: Don’t Let Texas Turn Its Back on Renewable Energy
There are bills designed to slow or shut down wind & solar in Texas. We need your voice to stop them.
What Is Energy Efficiency?
Energy efficiency is simply about reducing waste. Energy efficiency aims to decrease the amount of energy required to provide products and services through the use of improved technology and practices. By lowering the amount of energy needed for the same or greater service output, we reduce our reliance on fossil fuels needed to generate electricity. We also save money - and water.
Why Energy Efficiency Matters for Texas
- Lower bills for families, businesses, and schools
- Improved grid reliability during extreme heat and cold
- Cleaner air and fewer emissions
- Cheapest and most accessible way to fix the grid
- Immediate benefits that don’t require building new power plants
- Creates local jobs that can’t be outsourced
ACTION ALERT: Tell Texas Legislators to Prioritize Energy Efficiency
Texas ranks a dismal 36th in the nation for energy efficiency, despite being the energy capital of the United States.
What's the Difference?
While renewable energy focuses on cleaner power generation, energy efficiency focuses on reducing waste and demand. Together, they’re a one-two punch for energy affordability, reliability, and climate action.
Anti-Renewable Energy Bills Threaten Progress
Despite the success of wind and solar, legislators are trying to slow down clean energy and prop up fossil fuels:
- SB 715 (Sen. Sparks): Imposes unrealistic backup power mandates on solar and wind - raising bills (ERCOT estimates at least $15 per month) and forcing plants offline.
- SB 819 (Sen. Kolkhorst): Slaps new permitting, buffer zones, and red tape only on renewable energy - not polluting power plants.
- SB 388 (Sen. King): Requires 50% of new power to be “dispatchable” - excluding battery storage, tipping the market towards other energy sources.
Smart Energy Efficiency Bills Can Help Texans
On the other hand, five small but mighty bills from the House could cut costs and improve reliability:
- HB 1359 (Rep. Hernandez): Bill relief for vulnerable Texans during extreme weather.
- HB 3237 (Rep. Turner): Keeps public buildings energy-smart.
- HB 5323 & HB 3826 (Rep. King & Rep. Hernandez): Coordinate state-wide efforts to reduce energy waste.
These are low-cost, high-impact solutions that benefit Texans - not special interests or big corporations.
Take Action for Texas
The future of Texas energy is at stake. Will we let corporate interests drive us backwards, or raise our voices for a cleaner, more affordable future? Sign up for updates and how to get involved!