As Texans gear up for a chilly weekend, the Texas Oil & Gas Association (TXOGA) has stepped up to calm concerns about energy supply during the cold weather. In a statement from TXOGA President Todd Staples, the association highlighted the robust preparedness of the Texas natural gas system, ensuring homes stay warm and businesses stay powered.

Natural Gas: The Backbone of Texas Winter Energy

The numbers tell a reassuring story. According to the Energy Information Administration, natural gas storage levels in the South-Central region are currently 8.3% above the five-year average. This surplus translates into a strong supply cushion that can handle the anticipated demand surge as temperatures dip.

Additionally, data from the Railroad Commission reveals that Texas has approximately 330 billion cubic feet of accessible natural gas in private storage facilities. To put that into perspective, this reserve is sufficient to fuel natural gas-powered electrical systems for over 64 days—provided buyers have pre-arranged their purchases and transmission.

A Collaborative Approach to Reliability

Staples emphasized the energy industry’s proactive efforts to fortify its winter readiness. Over the past year, significant investments have been made to enhance system reliability, winterize infrastructure, and secure adequate fuel supplies.

But preparedness doesn’t stop with the industry. Staples urged stakeholders across the energy value chain—producers, suppliers, and end-users—to engage in pre-planning, leverage storage capacities, and prioritize pre-purchasing. “Such forward planning mitigates exposure to market volatility while reinforcing our shared commitment to meeting Texans’ energy needs efficiently and safely,” Staples noted.

Lessons Learned, Systems Strengthened

Texans are no strangers to extreme weather, and recent winters have taught hard lessons about the vulnerabilities of complex energy systems. While widespread disruptions aren’t expected this time, TXOGA acknowledges that mechanical systems could still face challenges during prolonged extreme conditions.

What stands out is the collaborative spirit across the energy sector. From suppliers to operators, the focus remains on maintaining reliability, addressing emerging concerns, and ensuring a smooth energy supply chain.

Stay Warm, Stay Ready

As we brace for the cold, Texans can take comfort in knowing that their energy needs are in capable hands. The steps taken by TXOGA and the energy industry reflect a forward-thinking approach to managing resources during critical times.

So, as the cold front approaches, bundle up, enjoy the cooler weather, and rest assured that Texas’ natural gas system is ready to fuel your warmth and comfort this winter.