From Dallas Express · Dallas Express · · 1m 20s
Texas Opens State Land For New Power Projects
Texas wants industry partners to test geothermal, nuclear, and gas projects on land tied to school funding.
In brief
Texas wants industry partners to test geothermal, nuclear, and gas projects on land tied to school funding. Texas is using state land to seek steadier power supplies, while trying to turn energy projects into money for public schools. Originally reported by Dallas Express.
State land is open
The Texas General Land Office is asking companies and energy developers for ideas on using state-owned land for new power projects.
Three power paths
The request focuses on geothermal energy and small modular nuclear reactors. A separate request for natural gas plants is expected later.
School fund stakes
The GLO manages more than 13 million acres of state land and minerals. Revenue from resource development helps fund Texas public education.
Reliability is the pitch
Commissioner Dawn Buckingham framed the push as a way to keep homes, businesses, manufacturing, and future industries powered in Texas.
“Our state needs dependable energy to power homes, businesses, manufacturing, and the next generation of American industries.”
Part of a bigger plan
The effort is the first pillar of the Texas Engine initiative, which links state lands to growth, energy security, and national security.
Minerals are next door
The agency also pointed to critical mineral work on state land, including USA Rare Earth's Round Top Mountain project, slated for production in 2028.
The short version
Texas is using state land to seek steadier power supplies, while trying to turn energy projects into money for public schools.
