Abbott Stacks Texas Economic Board With Fossil Fuel Insiders

Governor Greg Abbott’s latest appointments to the Texas Economic Development Corporation Board send a stark message: fossil fuels reign supreme. By naming Lawrence Coben, CEO of NRG Energy, and Bruce Niemeyer, a Chevron executive, to this influential body, Texas doubles down on an energy-driven economy. The board shapes the state’s global business appeal, guiding billions in investments. Yet, with energy insiders at the helm, the state risks prioritizing short-term gains over a sustainable future.

Coben and Niemeyer bring deep ties to oil, gas, and energy markets. Their expertise in corporate strategy and industry networks promises to draw jobs and capital. But what kind of jobs will these be? The board’s role in public-private partnerships amplifies its power, directing incentives and infrastructure projects. When fossil fuel leaders dominate, Texas’s economic vision tilts toward hydrocarbons, sidelining the urgent need for diversification.

Energy fuels Texas’s economy, supporting 15% of jobs and 25% of GDP. Oil and gas royalties bankroll schools, highways, and industry tax breaks. This reliance drives the state’s preference for energy executives on its economic board, seen as a way to secure manufacturing and chemical projects. However, this approach locks Texas into a fossil fuel dependency while other states embrace cleaner alternatives.

Places like Colorado and New Mexico are building 'just transition' programs, retraining workers and investing in renewable hubs. Texas, however, remains tethered to an older model. The revolving door between corporate suites and state roles raises red flags. Studies show over half of major contractors hire former officials to win public contracts, hinting at policies skewed toward industry. When leaders like Coben and Niemeyer guide decisions, communities grappling with pollution or workers needing new skills are left behind.

Environmental justice and clean energy advocates warn that stacking the board with fossil fuel executives skews priorities. Texas’s wind and solar sectors are thriving, yet their leaders are absent from these discussions. Why exclude them? A balanced board, including renewable experts and community representatives, could steer Texas toward green infrastructure and equitable growth. Instead, the state favors projects that deepen reliance on oil and gas.

The consequences are real. Climate change demands bold action, and states must pivot to low-carbon economies. Public-private partnerships could fund clean energy training or sustainable urban projects, like Virginia’s affordable housing initiatives. Texas, however, risks mirroring Louisiana, where energy wealth coexists with polluted communities and economic fragility. Diverse board representation is critical to avoid this trap.

Texas faces a pivotal moment. Renewables are set to power over half of global electricity by 2050, and states that invest in clean tech and workforce retraining will lead the way. Those clinging to fossil fuels risk economic stagnation. Governor Abbott’s appointments reflect a choice to prioritize industry insiders over a forward-looking vision. This path threatens Texas’s long-term prosperity.

The solution lies in balance and accountability. The Economic Development Corporation Board needs voices from renewable energy, labor, and environmental justice groups. Transparent appointments and ethical safeguards can ensure policies serve the public, not just corporations. Texas has the potential to lead as a hub for sustainable business, but only if it embraces a greener, more inclusive approach. Will it seize this opportunity?