Can Austin Keep its Lights on without Coal?
Twenty years ago, the people of Sacramento voted to shut down their 913 MW nuclear power plant, capable of providing the vast majority of the city’s electricity. In response, their city-owned utility (SMUD) began powering down the Rancho Seco nuclear just plant 12 hours later. This example suggests Austin may be able to quit using coal in much less than 12 years and still have the lights stay on throughout the City.
There is extensive evidence that Austin does not need to own a coal plant to keep its lights on. Neither Dallas nor Houston own coal plants, and their citizens have access to reliable electricity. Coal plants are frequently removed from service in Texas for repairs and breakdowns, yet the lights keep going.
Whether Austin continues to own a coal plant — or not — is not a technical issue.
It is an economic issue.
It is an environmental issue.
It is a City leadership issue.
