- Texas oil production surpassed 2 billion barrels for the first time in 2025, reaching 2,003,844,281 barrels.
- Natural gas production hit a record 12.62 trillion cubic feet.
- The state issued 665 original drilling permits in February 2025, with a strong focus on new oil and gas wells.
- Texas' oil and gas industry continues to drive economic growth, with tax revenues supporting education, infrastructure and healthcare.
- The industry remains a cornerstone of America's energy independence, with production levels vital to national security and economic prosperity.
A new era of production
In a remarkable display of industrial prowess, the Texas oil and gas industry has once again asserted its dominance on the global stage. In 2024, the Lone Star State shattered previous production records, with oil output surpassing the two billion barrel mark for the first time in history. This achievement, announced by the Texas Railroad Commission (RRC), underscores the state's pivotal role in driving America's energy independence and economic growth.
The RRC's recent statement reveals that Texas produced 2,003,844,281 barrels of oil in 2024, a significant leap from the 1.99 billion barrels recorded in 2023. This milestone marks a new era for the industry, highlighting the effectiveness of technological advancements and the state's commitment to responsible energy production. Natural gas production also reached unprecedented levels, totaling 12.62 trillion cubic feet, further solidifying Texas' position as a global energy leader.
RRC Chairman Christi Craddick emphasized the significance of these figures, stating, "These latest records further demonstrate Texas's position as a global leader in oil and gas production." She added, "This also proves that with sensible regulations backed by science and data, it is possible to achieve unmatched economic prosperity while at the same time upholding the mission to safeguard our communities and natural resources."
Economic impact and tax revenue
The economic benefits of Texas' oil and gas production are profound. RRC Commissioner Wayne Christian highlighted the industry's role in powering the state and the nation, saying, "Texas oil and gas powers the state, nation, and the world both with energy and economics." He noted that the "Texas 'Economic Miracle' happens because of oil and gas," which has brought in hundreds of billions of dollars, enriching the state's education, infrastructure, and healthcare systems.
The tax revenue generated from oil and gas production is a critical component of the state budget. It funds essential services such as public education, the Rainy Day Fund, and transportation. This financial influx is a testament to the industry's contribution to the state's overall economic health and its ability to support vital public services.
Drilling permits and future growth
The RRC's commitment to fostering responsible growth in the oil and gas sector is evident in its recent issuance of drilling permits. In February 2025, the commission issued a total of 665 original drilling permits, including 563 for new oil or gas wells. This proactive approach ensures that the industry continues to expand while adhering to stringent regulatory standards. This distribution reflects the industry's diverse production capabilities and its focus on maximizing output through strategic drilling initiatives.
The breakdown of well types for the February 2025 permits includes:
- 105 oil permits
- 34 gas permits
- 487 oil and gas permits
- 34 injection permits
- 5 other permits
Texas' oil and gas production has long been a cornerstone of America's energy landscape. The state's ability to consistently break production records is a testament to its robust infrastructure, skilled workforce, and innovative spirit. The 2024 output not only broke the record set in 2023 but also continued a five-year growth streak, demonstrating the industry's resilience and adaptability.
The significance of Texas' production extends beyond state borders. As RRC Commissioner Jim Wright noted, "Yet another year of record-breaking energy production reinforces what Texans have long known - that Texas energy fuels our nation’s economy and those of our friends and allies across the globe." This statement underscores the global impact of Texas' oil and gas industry and its role in supporting international energy security.
As America strives for energy independence, Texas' oil and gas industry stands at the forefront of this ambitious goal. The state's ability to produce record-breaking volumes of oil and gas is a testament to its commitment to innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. With the right policies and continued investment in technology, Texas is poised to lead the nation toward a future of energy independence and economic prosperity.
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