Off-Peak: Texas' Renewable Capacity and More Spring Energy Saving Tips

Dear BKV Energy Community,

Spring is here! We hope you are enjoying the nice weather. In this newsletter, we explore Texas’ renewable energy sources and BKVE’s green energy options.

Did you know Texas is the leading producer of renewable energy in the United States? Thanks to our vast geography and favorable climate, our state has been able to harness the power of the sun, wind, and water more than any other state.

Undisputed Wind Power Titan

With an installed wind capacity of over 30,000 MW, Texas can generate electricity enough for millions of homes. The state’s wind farms, sprawling across the plains, generate significant energy while creating jobs and developing rural economies.

Growing Solar Energy Capacity

Texas solar power has grown exponentially, with capacity now over 17,000 MW (second to California’s 39,000 MW). This surge is propelled by sunny climate and supportive policies, which encourage residential and large-scale solar installations.

Beyond Wind and Solar

Texas has also invested in hydroelectric power and biomass. There are 26 hydropower plants in Texas capable of generating over 700 MW. While responsible for minimal energy production, Texas has great potential to expand its energy mix with additional water and biomass plants.

Renewable’s Impact on Wholesale Prices

Renewable energy sources like wind and solar can have both a positive and negative impact on wholesale electricity prices in Texas. When the sun shines and wind blows, prices decrease because they generate power so efficiently.

However, at night when the sun is down or when the wind isn’t blowing, they don’t contribute to the power grid and that drives prices back up. These power sources can be unpredictable, at times unreliable, and the state does not yet have the storage infrastructure to fully take advantage of their generation power.

BKV Energy’s Green Energy Plans

We’re proud to offer green energy plans. All plans begin at 29% renewable energy, but we also have 100% renewable plans as well. Compared to other providers, our green energy plans are typically several cents more affordable. We believe Texans should have the option to go green without breaking the bank.

Written by Graham Lumley

Graham Lumley is the Growth Product Manager at BKV Energy, a retail electricity provider in Texas' deregulated market, where he has worked since 2023. He analyzes customer usage and billing data, helps develop BKV's fixed-rate plans, and creates tools to simplify Texas electricity shopping. He has written over 200 articles on Texas electricity rates, delivery charges, plan types, energy generation, and more to help Texans understand their bills and pay less. With over 10 years of experience in consumer products, marketing, and energy, he explains the Texas electricity market in plain language.