In a recent Cabinet meeting, former President Donald Trump claimed that "rapid adoption of solar and wind power has destabilized the U.S. electric grid and driven up costs," using the assertion to justify ending renewable subsidies. But the largest regional grid in the country, ERCOT in Texas, tells a strikingly different story.

Grid reliability leaps
ERCOT reported a mere 0.30% probability of rolling blackouts in August 2025, down from a concerning 12% in August 2024. This dramatic improvement reflects the state's successful integration of wind and solar, paired with strategic expansion of battery storage, now exceeding 8GW and rising.

Lower power costs for consumers
Despite Trump's cost claims, Texas electricity prices hover ~24% below the national average. The combination of low-cost renewables and storage has disrupted traditional fossil-fuel-driven pricing, offering relief to households and co-ops.

Policy implications beyond Texas
In contrast, more fossil-reliant grids like PJM face escalating prices and rising blackout risks unless capacity is expanded. Critics warn that cutting clean energy incentives-via Trump's tax-and-spending bill and a recent executive order-could undermine national grid resilience and stall critical energy transition.

Analysis for U.S. Agriculture
For the ag sector, productive crop irrigation, livestock operations, and rising ag tech demands increasingly rely on steady, low-cost electricity. A resilient grid powered by precision agriculture, cold storage, and EV infrastructure supports the sector's competitiveness. Weakening renewable incentives may translate into tighter margins and volatility in rural energy pricing.

Statistical context

• Texas battery storage capacity surged past 8GW, with more projects queued.

• Reliability risk dropped from 12% to 0.30% in peak summer months.

• Power costs remain 24% below U.S. averages.

Policy takeaways

• Farm bill design and crop insurance costs could be influenced by regional energy stability.

• Sustained investment in co-op renewable programs and agrivoltaics (solar over crops) may offer dual benefits.

• A mix of fossil, nuclear, and renewables, underpinned with smart grid and storage, provides the best buffer against extreme weather and rising demand.