Texas

Representing almost one-fourth of total US oil and three-tenths of US natural gas reserves, the state of Texas leads the nation in supplying essential fossil fuels to the energy sector.

Throughout the state, oil reserves are spread across several geologic basins, the largest of which are concentrated in the Permian Basin of West Texas, holding more than 20 of the Nation’s top 100 oil fields. Similarly, natural gas deposits are found in abundance throughout the state, with the largest fields heavily concentrated in the East Texas Basin in north-eastern Texas.

The State’s signature crude oil type - West Texas Intermediate (WTI) - remains the major benchmark of crude oil in the Americas. Because of its light consistency and low-sulphur content, this high quality oil yields a large fraction of gasoline when refined.

With a high concentration of refineries including the nation’s largest, the Baytown refinery, the Houston area represents the largest processing center in the United States. From here, pipelines spread across the country and allow Texas petroleum products to reach virtually every major consumption center east of the Rocky Mountains. Included in this network is the Colonial Pipeline system (Koch), a vital artery for supplying markets throughout the South and East coast.

Some facts on Texan oil and gas reserves:

Texas is the leading crude oil-producing State in the nation (excluding Federal offshore areas, which produce more than any single State).

The State’s signature crude oil type, known as West Texas Intermediate (WTI), remains the major benchmark of crude oil in the Americas.

More than one-fourth of total U.S. natural gas production occurs in Texas, making it the Nation’s leading natural gas producer.

Reserves and Supply

Production

Ref. EIA, Official Energy Statistics from the U.S. Govt.