Texas wind speeds in focus as rare fossil fuel output cut in reach

AI generated summary

Texas is on track for a rare decrease in fossil fuel power generation in 2025, contingent on a significant rise in output from its wind farms during the year's final quarter. Data from LSEG indicates that fossil fuel generation within the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) has already declined by 1% in the first nine months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, while clean energy sources have surged by 14%. Solar energy has been the primary contributor to this increase, with a 45% rise in output, but the upcoming wind generation will be crucial in determining the overall energy mix.

As the seasons change, ERCOT typically sees a shift in energy demand and generation patterns. While solar output tends to decrease in winter, wind generation is expected to rise significantly due to increased wind speeds. Historical data shows that wind power generation has averaged a 17% increase in the last quarter of the year compared to the previous quarter. If wind generation meets or exceeds forecasts, it could lead to a notable reduction in fossil fuel reliance, marking a significant shift in Texas's energy landscape.