Governor Abbott Statement On Texas Energy Fund

Office of the Texas Governor | Greg Abbott | Press Release

Governor Greg Abbott and Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick issued the following statement concerning the future of the Texas Energy Fund:

“In recent testimony before the Senate Business and Commerce committee, ERCOT CEO Pablo Vegas testified that Texas may need 150,000 megawatts of power to power our grid by 2030. That is only six years away. Currently, Texas typically has approximately 85,000 megawatts of power available counting wind, solar, coal, nuclear, and natural gas. If the new estimate is correct, the updated numbers provided by Mr. Vegas call for an immediate review of all policies concerning the grid.

Last November, voters overwhelmingly approved Senate Joint Resolution 93, which created the Texas Energy Fund, providing for a $5 billion low-interest loan program to incentivize the building of more dispatchable natural gas plants. Texas has already received notice of intent to apply for $39 billion in loans, making the program nearly eight times oversubscribed. With the new projections for 2030, we will seek to expand the program to $10 billion to build more new plants as soon as possible. The average plant will take three to four years to complete, and new transmission lines will take three to six years to complete. Texas is currently the fastest state to approve and build new plants and transmission lines because of our low regulations and pro-business policies, but we must move quickly.”

McAllen Receives $2.7 Million Texas A&M Forest Service Schoolyard Forest Grant

Mayor Villalobos excitedly announced that the City of McAllen, in partnership with the Quinta Mazatlan World Birding Center and McAllen ISD, has been awarded the Texas A&M Forest Service Schoolyard Forest Grant in the amount of $2.7 million.

This significant grant will be divided amongst seven campuses within the McAllen ISD, aiming to enhance the community’s well-being and educational opportunities. The funds will be used to provide extensive tree canopy coverage, promoting a healthier and more sustainable environment for students and the surrounding community.

The introduction of more green spaces will not only improve the aesthetic appeal of the campuses but also offer numerous educational benefits. Students will have the opportunity to learn about the importance of forestry, environmental stewardship, and the role of trees in our ecosystem. These enhancements will create more engaging and interactive outdoor learning experiences, fostering a deeper connection with nature.

In addition to educational improvements, the increased tree canopy will contribute to the overall well-being of the community. Trees play a vital role in improving air quality, reducing urban heat islands, and providing shade and recreational spaces for residents. This initiative underscores the City of McAllen’s commitment to sustainability and the health of its citizens.

Congratulations to the City of McAllen, Quinta Mazatlan World Birding Center, and McAllen ISD for this remarkable achievement. This grant represents a significant step forward in creating a greener, healthier, and more educationally enriching environment for all.