"Nuclear power is primed to play a central role in building up the state's baseload power," says Texas Nuclear Alliance President Reed Clay
Austin, TX – April 17, 2026 — The Texas Nuclear Alliance (TNA) today responded to the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) preliminary Long-Term Load Forecast, which projects peak demand in the ERCOT region could reach approximately 367,790 MW by 2032 — more than four times the current all-time peak of 85,508 MW.
The forecast highlights the explosive growth in electricity demand driven by economic expansion, data centers, industrial development, and other large loads across Texas.
TNA President Reed Clay issued the following statement:
“The ERCOT long-term load forecast is a clear wake-up call: Texas is growing, and with that growth comes a surge in electricity demand. To meet this demand, we’ll need to fortify our energy future, and nuclear power is primed to play a central role in building up the state’s baseload power. As Texas continues to lead the nation in economic growth and innovation, advancing nuclear projects will be crucial to powering our economy, strengthening grid reliability, and maintaining our position as America’s energy leader.”
About the Texas Nuclear Alliance
TNA is the only industry association in Texas dedicated to the advancement of nuclear technology in the state. Formed in 2022 in the aftermath of Winter Storm Uri, and comprising of over 70 member entities today, TNA is based on the fundamental premise that if Texas and the world want low-carbon, reliable energy, it can no longer turn its back on nuclear energy. In the 89th Texas Legislature, TNA helped pass four nuclear-dedicated bills, including House Bill 14, a $350 million investment by the state in nuclear energy—the largest of its kind in the U.S—that led to the creation of the Texas Advanced Nuclear Energy Office (TANEO). TNA was formed with a singular mission: to make Texas the Nuclear Capital of the World. Nuclear is clean, safe, reliable, and secure.