Detractors will say this is just stereotypical Texas stubbornness, but an honest assessment will reveal that there are justifiable reasons for Texas to opt out.

For starters, Texas utilities are managed by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas making management and change straightforward and limiting federal red tape. If Texas joins the grid it we will have to deal with a myriad of utility commissions to build consensus and enact changes.

Our stance is enabled by a vestige of the days when we were a sovereign republic that gives us ten miles of coastal rights for wind turbines. On top of that, Texas leads the nation in wind-energy production. We produce three times as much as California.

As a state we do consume a lot of energy, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing as evidenced by a relatively strong economy and low unemployment. A local price-sensitive market gives us another reason to maintain an independent grid that’s not subject to additional bureaucracies  and regulations.

I believe that energy independence has to start at home. First, be responsible in your personal use of energy. Second, hold your local community leaders accountable and get involved. And finally, make your voice heard at the state level.

Contact your state representative and let them know how you feel http://www.fyi.legis.state.tx.us/ .

Source: http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/industry/4333893.html?nav=RSS20&src=syn&dom=yah_buzz&mag=pop