By Hunter Howton
Key Insights
- The Texas House of Representatives tries to leverage energy industry experts in the creation, refinement, and passing of energy related bills at the 89th Regular Legislative Session.
- Water Bills – There is a need for deeper research on the impact on Texas freshwater of AI technology and data centers.
- Technology Bills – There is a need for considerations around energy load and water management prior to introducing prospective bills on opensource AI and laws preventing the use of AI in specific places.
The Experience
I recently had the privilege of representing capSpire at Texas Energy Day, engaging with policymakers, industry leaders, and fellow professionals in critical discussions about the future of energy in Texas. The day was filled with meaningful conversations, networking opportunities, and a firsthand look at the legislative process inside the Texas Capitol.
A key focus of our discussions centered around two pressing topics: water management and technology infrastructure. As Texas continues to grow, ensuring the sustainability of our water resources while also meeting increasing energy demands is crucial. Our conversations with legislators emphasized the importance of water conservation efforts within the oil and gas sector, as well as broader strategies to enhance efficiency in water usage across industries.
In addition, I had the opportunity to provide insight into the challenges and solutions surrounding data center load management. With the rise of artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and energy-intensive digital infrastructure, managing the power demands of data centers is more important than ever. I shared perspectives on how optimizing energy distribution, leveraging renewable sources, and improving grid resiliency can help balance Texas’ growing technology footprint with sustainable energy practices.
I extend my gratitude to the Texas House of Representatives for welcoming these discussions and to District 98 Representative Giovanni Capriglione and his team for their dedication to addressing these challenges. Their commitment to proactive policymaking ensures that Texas remains a leader in energy innovation and sustainability.
A significant highlight of the event was the recognition of Texas Energy Day at the Capitol through House Resolution 127, sponsored by State Representative Drew Darby. This resolution acknowledges the vital contributions of the oil and gas industry to Texas’ economy and underscores the state’s commitment to energy leadership. Additionally, Senator Brian Birdwell introduced Senate Resolution 20, emphasizing the importance of abundant natural resources, energy security, and economic stability for both Texas and our global partners.
Texas Energy Day also brought together representatives from over 40 partner organizations, including major industry players such as ExxonMobil, Chevron, and ConocoPhillips. These companies, alongside advocacy groups like the Texas Oil & Gas Association and the Consumer Energy Alliance, reinforced the importance of industry-driven solutions for sustainable energy growth. Their presence at the Capitol highlighted the collaborative efforts needed to address regulatory challenges, ensure economic prosperity, and advance technological innovations in the energy sector.
I look forward to seeing how our conversations translate into impactful legislation in the 89th Regular Legislative Session. Texas Energy Day was a powerful reminder of the importance of industry collaboration in shaping a resilient and forward-thinking energy landscape for our state.
About capSpire
capSpire propels energy and commodity businesses forward by blending human ingenuity with deep market expertise to solve complex challenges. Our mission is to deliver transformative solutions that empower businesses to grow, scale, and succeed.
With three integrated services—Advisory, Delivery, and Operations and Support—capSpire offers holistic solutions that start with strategy and carry clients seamlessly through to scale.
What sets capSpire apart is our ability to connect every stage of the value chain, delivering tailored solutions that integrate technology, processes, and industry insight. From strategy consulting and technology implementation to operational excellence, we ensure that every solution drives measurable impact and uncovers new growth opportunities.
At capSpire, we don’t just implement solutions; we become an extension of your team. We empower businesses to maximize their investments and push forward—confidently and strategically—into the future. Together, we’ll power forward.
Questions? Reach out to Associate Advisory Consultant Hunter Howton on LinkedIn.
