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| Data source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Hourly Eletric Grid Monitor |
The electricity mix in Texas, overseen by ERCOT, saw significant shifts in 2023:
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Renewable Growth: While wind power remains dominant, new wind installations slowed. In contrast, solar capacity, often paired with storage, saw rapid expansion.
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Impact on Natural Gas: With more solar capacity, less natural gas is expected to be used during midday and peak summer demand, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
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Wholesale Electricity Markets: Natural gas-fired generation helps balance demand changes with wind and solar cycles, resembling California's "duck curve."
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Generation Trends: Solar generation peaks midday, while wind picks up in the evening. Despite stable wind generation, solar increased by 35% in 2023.
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Future Plans: Developers plan to add 24 GW of solar capacity and 13 GW of battery storage by 2025, compared to only 3 GW of added natural gas capacity.
These changes reflect a growing shift towards renewable energy in Texas, highlighting the state's commitment to sustainability.
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