Environmental policy should enhance-but cannot supplant-the fundamental dynamics of securely available, cost-efficient energy. Without coal in the energy mix, sufficient electric generation to meet future Texas, national, and global demand is doubtful.
Energy & Environment
The Explosion of Transmission Costs in ERCOT: Causes, Forecasts, and Policy Solutions
KEY POINTS • Transmission costs in ERCOT rose from $1.5 billion in 2010 to over $5 billion in 2024 and could increase to over $12 billion per year by 2033. • After adjusting for inflation and overall rising electricity demand, the average ratepayer in the ERCOT region paid 57% more in transmission charges in 2024...
January 8, 2026