You might not have expected it from the state known for its big whig oil execs, but Texas just approved a $4.93 billion wind power transmission power, giving a major boost to the development of wind energy in the southern state.
Texas is actually already the largest producer of wind power, but transmitting it has been problematic; turbines have been known to shut off at times because the energy produced can’t be transmitted. But the new multi-billion dollar project will help in that area, installing a web of transmission lines which will carry energy from remote areas in the western part of the state to heavily populated metropolises like Dallas, Houston, Austin and San Antonio.
The investment is expected to bring a significant reduction in energy costs. “We think it’s going to lower costs, lower pollution and create jobs. We think that for every $3 invested, we’ll probably see about an $8 reduction in electric costs,” said Tom Smith, the state director. I guess it’s high time to be proud to be a Texan.
More in the New York Times article here.
[Photo via jcwadeaz, flickr]
