July 2, 2025 – Texas is stepping up in a big way when it comes to carbon capture and storage, or CCS. And here at Fueling Freedom, we believe that’s a smart move. This isn’t just about technology: it’s about protecting jobs, boosting the economy, and keeping American energy at the top of the list for elected officials and public policy leaders.
What’s Happening in Texas?
Right now, only the federal government can approve permits for storing carbon dioxide deep underground. These permits are required for CCS projects to move forward, but the process has been slow and frustrating. In Texas alone, more than a dozen permit applications have been sitting in limbo, waiting on Washington to act.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is considering a final rule that would give Texas what’s called “primacy” over Class VI carbon storage wells. If approved, the Texas Railroad Commission would oversee permits for geologic carbon sequestration — streamlining the process, cutting federal delays, and helping CCS projects get off the ground.
Why It Matters
Giving Texas control over CCS permits would make a big difference.
Here’s why:
-
Local know-how: Texas regulators already manage oil and gas operations. They understand the land, the geology, and the industry better than Washington bureaucrats do.
-
Faster progress: Right now, delays are holding back projects that are ready to go. With state-level control, those projects could move forward more quickly, creating jobs and cutting emissions sooner.
-
Real results: Texas already has a track record. Projects like Petra Nova near Houston have shown that carbon capture can work. With more support, Texas can build on that success and lead the way for the rest of the country.
How This Aligns with Fueling Freedom’s Mission
At Fueling Freedom, our public policy priorities focus on expanding American energy while protecting our economy and national security.
Texas’s move toward primacy reflects all six of our guiding principles:
-
Energy Exploration and Development: Texas is advancing responsible energy solutions that reduce emissions while supporting production.
-
Regulatory Reform: By cutting through federal delays, Texas is making it easier to get projects moving.
-
Infrastructure Investment: More CCS projects mean more pipelines, capture sites, and storage hubs, all of which support a stronger energy economy.
-
Technological Innovation: Texas is proving that innovation in energy does not require abandoning traditional sources. It requires improving how we use them.
-
Economic Growth and Job Creation: These projects bring new jobs in engineering, construction, manufacturing, and science. They also protect existing jobs tied to fossil fuels.
-
Global Energy Leadership: As Texas shows how to get CCS right, the United States strengthens its leadership in clean energy solutions.
Why Fueling Freedom Supports This
At Fueling Freedom, we believe in common-sense energy policy that helps American families, workers, and communities.
Texas’s move to take charge of CCS permitting supports many of our core priorities:
-
It encourages responsible energy development.
-
It cuts red tape and gets projects moving.
-
It supports new infrastructure and good-paying jobs.
-
It helps America lead the world in energy innovation.
Most importantly, it shows that states can lead the way when they are given the tools and trust to act.
Take Action
Primacy is a crucial step forward for Texas and for America’s energy future. But it’s not a done deal yet. The EPA is asking for public comments, and this is where you come in.
Now is the time to speak up and support Texas’s bid for Class VI primacy.
Here’s how:
1. Submit a Public Comment
Visit the EPA’s comment portal at federalregister.gov and submit your feedback by the August 1 deadline.
You can also submit a comment by mail by addressing your comments to: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 6, Lisa Pham, Groundwater/UIC Section, Mail code: WDDG, 1201 Elm Street, Suite 500, Dallas, TX 75270-2102.
Or by e-mail: [email protected] E-mail subject line: Texas Class VI Primacy Application – Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OW-2025-0157.
Use your own words or let them know you support local control and faster, smarter permitting.
2. Attend the Public Hearing
The EPA will host a virtual public hearing on July 24, 2025, from 5–8 p.m. Central Time. You can register to attend or speak at the hearing through the EPA’s website. Your voice can make a real difference.
Visit this link to register: https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_AfdDTc5uRVqjm5GV4yRGEA#/
3. Spread the Word
Share this blog post, talk to your colleagues and community, and encourage others to submit comments.
At Fueling Freedom, we have identified nearly 500,000 voters in Texas who have expressed that energy is their number one public policy concern at the ballot box. These Texans aren’t just supporters, they’re a powerful and vocal bloc looking for leadership from those who prioritize energy independence, innovation, and affordability.
The more Texans who weigh in, the stronger the case for approval.
Carbon capture isn’t just good for the environment. It’s good for jobs, energy reliability, and the future of our country.
And we hope other energy-producing states follow Texas’s lead.