The Texas General Land Office (GLO) is seeking input from industry on three next‑generation power options—geothermal energy, small modular nuclear reactors and natural‑gas plants—on state‑owned land. Commissioner Dawn Buckingham said the agency will open a Request for Information (RFI) process for companies, developers, technology providers and energy producers interested in these projects.
Why the push now?
Texas has long relied on its abundant natural resources to fuel economic growth. Buckingham emphasized that the state cannot afford to halt innovation, noting that dependable energy is essential for homes, businesses, manufacturing and the next generation of American industries. The GLO’s effort is framed as the first pillar of the “Texas Engine: Fueled, Fed and Fortified” initiative, a broader strategy to use state lands to support economic growth, energy security and national security.
Geothermal and nuclear opportunities
Respondents interested in geothermal or nuclear exploration can submit proposals for projects on lands that generate revenue for the Permanent School Fund, which underwrites Texas public education. Geothermal power offers a steady, low‑carbon source of electricity, while small modular nuclear reactors promise advanced, scalable nuclear technology that can be deployed with reduced upfront costs compared to traditional plants.
Natural‑gas plant RFI forthcoming
A separate RFI focused on natural‑gas plant opportunities on state land is expected to be released later. Natural‑gas facilities are viewed as a bridge technology that can provide reliable baseload power while the state expands renewable and nuclear capacity.
Economic and educational impact
The GLO manages more than 13 million acres of state land and minerals. By attracting private partners to develop these energy projects, the agency aims to generate additional revenue for the Permanent School Fund, directly supporting Texas public schools. The agency also highlighted recent progress on critical mineral development, citing the USA Rare Earth’s Round Top Mountain project in Hudspeth County, slated for commercial production in 2028 to strengthen the domestic supply chain for rare‑earth elements.
Commissioner Buckingham’s remarks
“Texas built its economy by putting our natural resources to work, and we cannot afford to stop innovation now,” Buckingham said. “Geothermal, advanced nuclear technology and natural‑gas plants represent very different approaches to the same challenge: producing dependable power right here at home. The GLO is going to explore every responsible opportunity to make Texas energy stronger, more reliable, and more secure.”
The GLO’s outreach invites stakeholders to submit their interest and ideas, with the agency promising to evaluate each proposal for feasibility, environmental stewardship and alignment with the state’s long‑term energy strategy.
Original reporting: The Dallas Express — read the source article.
