January 2021 NEWS

Texas needs to take the lead on carbon capture, say Baker Institute experts

HOUSTON (Jan. 28, 2021)—Texas, with advantages in everything from its geology to its workforce, should become a leader in carbon capture, according to a new report from Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy. “Expanding Carbon Capture in Texas” provides a road... Read More >

Railroad Commissioner: Hear me out, President Biden. Don’t write off oil and gas.

As President Joe Biden took office, White House staff changed out photographs in hallways, newly appointed Cabinet members familiarized themselves with briefing materials and new stationery memorializing the arrival of the 46th president of the United States was printed. Change is everywhere in... Read More >

Solar offers out-of-work oil landmen place to rebuild

When oil prices crashed last year and work in the oil patch dried up, Jonathan Click found salvation in solar. For the previous 15 years, the Houston petroleum landman had been tracking down Texas land owners and mineral rights holders to help negotiate lease deals for oil and gas companies. But... Read More >

'It just makes sense': Harris County turns to renewable energy to power its buildings

When Adrian Garcia was Harris County sheriff, he wanted to rethink what kind of energy the jail used. Could the building have solar panels? Backup batteries? County leaders then didn’t embrace the idea, he said. Now a county commissioner, Garcia is pushing the county toward directly buying... Read More >

Op-ed: How Funders Can Support Clean, Reliable Water for All—not just the privileged

It’s time to redesign water systems in the United States to meet the needs of all people and communities—not just the privileged. Our present water system structure leaves many, particularly poor people, at risk of significant health and safety dangers. Today, amid a public health... Read More >

The transition from fossil fuel is an opportunity for Texas

Day One of the Joe Biden administration is only a few weeks away and so are a series of executive orders aimed at kick-starting the new president’s ambitious clean energy agenda as part of his promise to forcefully combat climate change. With the oil and gas industry making up about 30... Read More >