American Energy Works

Molly Vogt engages in a critical discussion with Dr. Brent Bennett, Policy Director for the Texas Public Policy Foundation, about the newly approved 765KV Strategic Transmission Expansion Plan. This episode delves into the staggering potential costs, estimated at nearly $100 billion, and their implications for all Texas ratepayers. As new lines are set to stretch across 70,000 acres of private property, the pressing question looms: what will this mean for your electric bill? Dr. Bennett reveals how these lines are designed not to generate new energy but merely to transmit existing power, raising alarms about the wisdom of spending vast sums on infrastructure that won’t add reliability. Through their conversation, they explore the sentiments of landowners impacted by this decision and discuss historic parallels, including the earlier CREZ transmission system. With the looming specter of rising costs, Molly and Dr. Bennett dissect whether the state's energy strategy is on the right track, especially in light of lessons from Winter Storm Yuri. Is it time to pivot towards building generation close to demand instead of doubling down on transmission? This episode challenges listeners to rethink Texas's energy future as the state grapples with balancing sustainable development and economic realities. Join the discussion about the significant decisions set to shape the landscape of Texas energy for generations to come. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For 83 years, the Great Southern Ranch has stood as a symbol of Texas’s agricultural legacy, nurturing the land and feeding families across America. But this family’s story faces an unprecedented threat from a proposed 765 kV transmission line destined to cut through their cherished home. Join us as we delve into intimate conversations with Frank, Kathy, Bonnie, and Paige, the dedicated members of this ranching family. They share the history, the hard work, and the emotional ties built over generations on this land. Listen to their heartfelt reflections on how the ranch has shaped their lives and the deep connections to the community it supports. The impending transmission line is not merely a logistical concern; it jeopardizes the very fabric of family legacy and rural economies. The family’s struggles echo a broader narrative: as independent farms vanish and the cattle herd shrinks, Texas’s agricultural future hangs in the balance. Exploring environmental stewardship and the potential harm to livestock, the family expresses their worries about stray voltage and long-term ecological effects. Their plea? For Texas legislators and the PUC to reconsider the impacts of this infrastructure on their operation and the wider community. The stakes are high, as this isn't just about land; it’s about preserving a way of life that has thrived for generations. The discussion uncovers the ripple effects that threaten not only the ranch but ultimately our food production systems. Every voice is vital, and we must advocate collectively to ensure that our agricultural heritage isn’t sacrificed for expediency. Tune in to hear the passionate calls for legislative action, consideration for alternatives to this route, and personal stories that highlight the deep-rooted connections to the land. This episode serves as a moving testament to the ranching culture at risk and an urgent call to protect it for future generations. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On the frontline of Texas's largest transmission buildout, ranchers Christy and Jake Hershey expose the real costs behind the proposed 765kV lines threatening their multi-generational homestead. As they share their personal journey, they unveil how rapidly extending electrical infrastructure could imperil not only their livelihood but the very fabric of Texas agriculture. With power demands surging from data centers and the booming Permian Basin, the state is rushing to lay down thousands of miles of high-voltage lines. But as Christy reveals, these lines are set to run dangerously close to essential water sources, endangering both livestock and land. From health repercussions impacting cattle to fears of diminished property values, the Hersheys reveal a looming crisis that could fundamentally alter rural life in Texas. Engage in an in-depth discussion about the implications of these developments, where land is not merely property—it’s a home, a heritage, and an essential resource. Hear how the community stands on the precipice of a land grab, forced to confront energy mega-corporations and bureaucratic decision-makers. As they paint a vivid picture of their ranch life, the Hersheys issue a bold call to action for Texas legislators and the Public Utility Commission to reconsider these plans. Can new energy solutions be engineered without trampling over the landscape and people who have nurtured it for generations? Join us to discover the heart of Texas ranching, the stakes of energy policy, and the commitments from the Hersheys to preserve their way of life while advocating for a more sensible approach to energy distribution. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Families in Erath and Somerville counties are confronting a monumental challenge: the proposal for 765 kV transmission lines that threaten their multi-generational farms and ranches. In a candid discussion led by Molly Vogt and Erath County Judge Brandon Huckabee, listeners gain insight into the community's fight against this overwhelming project. It's not just a matter of wires on a map; it’s about preserving livelihoods, local legacy, and ensuring that voices are heard amid complex public processes. Judge Huckabee recounts the moment his community first learned of the potential project, recalling the confusion and frustration caused by inadequate notice and the convoluted regulatory framework. With many residents unfamiliar with the Public Utility Commission (PUC) process, they found themselves scrambling to articulate their concerns while balancing work and personal commitments. Local advocates, including the No 765 group, have worked tirelessly to inform and assist neighbors, pushing for transparency and genuine participation. Together, they organized public meetings and collaborated with local leaders to amplify their collective voice. Huckabee details not only the current status of their fight against Encore's proposed lines but underscores the immense stakes involved—generational ranches, historic sites, and the local agricultural economy. As their struggle unfolds, the episode serves as a rallying cry for other Texans to engage actively in energy infrastructure discussions. The future of their land, community, and the broader implications of energy policy hang in the balance. By the end of the episode, it’s clear that the fight in Erath and Somerville counties is about more than just energy; it’s about dignity, legacy, and the right to shape their future. This is a poignant reminder that the decisions made today will echo for generations to come. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join host Molly Vogt and grassroots advocate Terry as they expose the hidden dangers and economic fallout of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in Texas. With a focus on Kerr County, Terry shares her firsthand experiences fighting for community rights against potentially hazardous energy policies. Discover the alarming connections between battery fires and public health, as they delve into environmental risks reminiscent of the East Palestine incident. Learn how proposed rules at the Public Utility Commission could impose guaranteed returns for BESS companies, shifting financial burdens onto Texas taxpayers. Explore the importance of local accountability and the pressing need for sustainable energy strategies, as they stress that Texas does not need these systems if reliable energy sources are prioritized. Terry’s journey exemplifies the fight against reckless energy policies, aiming for a secure, robust grid. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion that reveals not just the risks associated with current energy practices but also empowers listeners to advocate for safer, more reliable energy solutions. Take a stand against ill-informed regulations that threaten the health and safety of communities across Texas. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.