Texas has extensive infrastructure but also faces challenges associated with rapid growth, extreme weather, long distances, and uneven regional development.
## Electricity - Operates a distinctive power system, with much of the state served by the **ERCOT** grid. - Texas is a national leader in electricity generation from natural gas and wind, with rapidly growing solar capacity. - Grid reliability and weather resilience became major public issues after severe winter outages in 2021.
## Water - Water supply comes from rivers, reservoirs, aquifers, and local utility systems. - Key issues include drought, groundwater management, population growth, aging systems in some communities, and long-term water planning. - The **Edwards Aquifer** and **Ogallala Aquifer** are especially important in different parts of the state.
## Sewer and stormwater - Urban and suburban areas generally have developed sewer systems, though aging pipes and drainage capacity are concerns in some places. - Some rural areas rely on septic systems. - Flood control and stormwater management are major issues, particularly in the Gulf Coast and flash-flood-prone central regions.
## Internet and broadband - Broadband access is strong in major metropolitan areas and university centers. - Rural broadband remains uneven, with gaps in speed, affordability, and access in some counties. - Fiber expansion is ongoing in many fast-growing suburbs and cities.
## Cellular service - Mobile coverage is generally good along highways, cities, and most populated regions. - Remote ranchlands, desert areas, and some mountainous or sparsely populated zones may have weaker service.
## Other infrastructure themes - Large dam and reservoir systems support water storage and flood management. - Ports, pipelines, freight terminals, and industrial corridors are central to the state economy. - Fast growth has increased pressure on roads, schools, utilities, and public facilities in many metro regions.