Texas coastal hub of energy, trade and water security
Texas Governor has ordered audits of data-center projects seeking grid connections. ERCOT and the Public Utility Commission are reviewing more than 1,800 interconnection requests, the vast majority from data centers. The move aims to verify power and water use, tax incentives and community impacts, and could deny connections to projects that do not comply.
The Colorado River drought continues to squeeze water supplies across the U.S. West. New reductions are planned; states face ongoing cuts and cities scramble for backups. Reservoirs hit record lows while federal plans leave uncertainty for communities from Phoenix to Las Vegas.
A large microalgae bloom has clogged intake systems at five of Israel’s six coastal desalination plants, forcing temporary shutdowns and reduced output. Scientists link the bloom to currents from the Nile Delta and warm sea temperatures; some experts say untreated sewage from Gaza has increased nutrient loads. Authorities have mobilised backup supplies and restricted agricultural use while plants recover.
Trump has travelled to Port Arthur and Corpus Christi to campaign for Ken Paxton amid a tight midterm race; Rubio has joined the trip, signaling a blend of governance and campaigning as both officials highlight energy interests and party support.
Trump has highlighted a Venezuela oil shipment at a Texas rally, claiming the United States has gained access to 1 million barrels of oil at zero cost to taxpayers. He frames the move as part of a broader energy dominance strategy while critics question its legality and democratic implications ahead of the midterms.