The Future is Texas: Where Energy Innovation Meets Economic Opportunity

Texas isn’t just keeping up with the future of energy — it’s leading the charge.

From massive investments in hydrogen and battery storage to new nuclear technology and robust oil and gas infrastructure, the Lone Star State is powering ahead with a diversified, forward-thinking energy strategy. And as the country’s energy demands continue to climb, all signs point to Texas as the engine driving national — and global — progress.

A Foundation Built on Strength and Scale

Texas generates more energy than any other state, producing nearly a quarter of all U.S. energy. That includes leadership in oil and gas, wind, and utility-scale solar — a feat unmatched by any other region. Add in a $172 billion energy sector and a business climate designed for growth, and it’s easy to see why the state is a magnet for companies across the energy spectrum.

“Simply put, Texas gets energy,” says Gilberto Salinas, executive director and CEO of the Greater Brownsville Incentives Corporation. “And companies want to be where the action is.”

That action isn’t just about output. It’s about innovation. From hydrogen hubs to next-generation battery storage and carbon capture, Texas is investing in the future while continuing to lead in traditional energy production.

Energy Innovation in Action

To spotlight the state’s dynamic energy evolution, the Texas Economic Development Corporation (TxEDC) hosted its “Powering the Future: Texas Energy Summit” on April 16 in Austin. The event brought together business leaders, policymakers, and innovators to explore the future of Texas energy and the state’s unique role in driving it.

“Texas is proving that a robust and diversified energy strategy is key to a sustainable future,” says Aaron Demerson, president and CEO of TxEDC. “With the right mix of investment, policy support, and innovation, we’re ready to meet tomorrow’s challenges.”

Some of the key developments happening right now include:

• The Texas Energy Fund, which offers $5 billion in low-interest loans for new natural gas plants — with proposals to double that amount to $10 billion.
• Grid modernization efforts following the 2021 winter storm, including new plants and infrastructure investments.
• NEXT Lab at Abilene Christian University, which is building one of the nation’s only university-based nuclear reactors — cooled by molten salt — to help advance clean energy technologies.

Statewide Momentum — From the Border to the Capital

Texas’ energy innovation isn’t limited to its major metros.

In Brownsville, the Port of Brownsville is emerging as a hub for liquefied natural gas and clean energy, thanks to facilities operated by San Antonio-based Motus Energy. Meanwhile, in Cedar Park outside Austin, Hyliion is producing hybrid generators powered by natural gas — a signal of how communities across the state are embracing innovation and inviting investment.

“Texas represents the future for companies seeking to relocate or expand — especially in the energy sector — due to our unmatched combination of resources, infrastructure, and business-friendly policies,” says Arthur Jackson, chief economic officer for the City of Cedar Park.

Why Companies Keep Choosing Texas

Major energy players like ExxonMobil and Chevron have relocated headquarters to the Houston region in recent years — a powerful endorsement of Texas’ value proposition. The reasons are clear:

• No personal or corporate income tax
• Lower cost of living and operating
• Regulatory certainty and business-friendly courts
• A deep, diverse talent pool from top-tier universities
• Central location with world-class transportation infrastructure

Site selectors agree. For the 13th consecutive year, Texas won Site Selection magazine’s Governor’s Cup as the nation’s top state for new and expanded corporate facilities.

A Business Climate Designed for Growth

Texas continues to set the bar for attracting business investment. Companies fleeing high-cost, high-regulation environments — particularly in California — are finding a welcome home in Texas, where policies align with growth and innovation.

From an independent power grid to minimal NIMBY pushback, Texas offers businesses the freedom to scale — and the stability to plan long-term.

As Gilberto Salinas puts it: “Whether it’s oil, gas, renewables, or emerging energy technologies, Texas gives companies the freedom to grow.”

Want the full story? Dive deeper into Texas’ energy future by reading the full article in Expansion Solutions Magazine here.