A lack of regulation on power lines used by oilfield operators in Texas has led to several wildfires, with state agencies unable to enforce safety standards.
Unregulated power lines built by oil and gas operators are suspected of starting wildfires in the Texas Panhandle, with state agencies claiming no authority to regulate these lines.
State Rep. Ken King seeks a rule from the Railroad Commission to define its regulatory role after two February fires were linked to oilfield equipment.
Since 2005, power lines have caused over 14,000 fires in Texas, but there is no specific tracking of oilfield line-related incidents.
Key quote:
“I don’t need to do their job too, but that’s basically what I’m having to do in order to get change.”
— Craig Cowden, ranch owner
Why this matters:
Unregulated oilfield power lines pose a significant fire hazard in Texas, threatening lives, property and the environment. Regulatory gaps leave residents vulnerable and underscore the need for clearer oversight and accountability in energy infrastructure safety.
Environmentalists have raised concerns about a bill moving through the Texas Legislature that would create a new fund for desalination, beneficial reuse of produced water and inter-state water purchases.
By 2025, Exxon says it will reduce the intensity of its oilfield greenhouse gas emissions by 15-20% from 2016 levels, but did not set an overall emissions reduction target.
