Power Forward Texas Campaign Relaunches with Release of 2026 Voter Poll Results; Kicks off Five-Year Critical Growth Phase in Texas
Statewide polling shows Texas voters support infrastructure investments now to keep electricity reliable and costs affordable
Austin, Texas - (Feb. 17, 2026) Power Forward Texas today relaunched its statewide public awareness campaign alongside new polling that shows electricity remains affordable for Texans. Electricity prices cost residents 10 percent less than the national average, and rank as only the 5th most concerning monthly household expense among surveyed residents. At the same time, voters recognize the need to plan ahead to protect affordability as the state continues to grow.
The statewide survey finds that:
81 percent of Texas voters say population growth and increased usage are driving rising electricity demand;
86 percent support investments in electric infrastructure to protect reliability and affordability; and
52 percent say it is better to invest now at a lower cost rather than wait until problems arise.
“Electricity is the backbone of Texas' economic growth and prosperity,” said Mark Bell, President and CEO of the Association of Electric Companies of Texas (AECT). “Our state is growing faster than any other state, creating ever-increasing demands on our electric system. These poll results show that Texans understand these demands, support the state's economic growth, and are unified around the need for long-term planning and affordability, while supporting reliability and resiliency.”
The poll also revealed Texas voters’ beliefs about the following:
Affordability: Electricity is a manageable household expense for Texans. It’s behind rent & mortgage, health care, groceries, and property taxes as a monthly concern.
Growth: Texans clearly connect rising electricity demand with the state’s continued success. More than eight in ten voters say population growth and increased usage are contributing to higher demand, making growth the most frequently cited driver in the poll.
Planning: Voters strongly support long-term solutions that keep electricity reliable and affordable. Nearly nine in ten Texans say investments in electric infrastructure are important to support reliability and economic growth, while over half prefer investing in needed infrastructure now at a lower cost rather than waiting until problems arise.
Accountability: Nearly two-thirds of voters say they may support higher electricity bills if funds are used specifically for grid improvements, reflecting a preference for targeted investments today to help avoid higher costs and disruptions later.
Launched in 2024, Power Forward Texas educates Texans about how electric infrastructure supports economic growth while maintaining affordability and reliability. The campaign relaunch reflects what Texans are saying in this latest polling: keeping electricity affordable tomorrow means planning ahead today.
Media Contact: Ben Gaffaney, 512-413-8732
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About the Poll
Power Forward Texas conducted a poll of 1,001 Texas voters in December 2025, with representation of all areas of the state, all ages, political parties and ethnic groups.
About Power Forward Texas
Power Forward Texas is a statewide public awareness initiative focused on powering the Texas of tomorrow through smart, long-term investment in electric infrastructure that supports affordability, reliability and economic growth.
About AECT
The Association of Electric Companies of Texas, Inc. (AECT) is a trade organization of electric companies in Texas. Organized in 1978, AECT provides a forum for member company representatives to exchange information about public policy, and to communicate with government officials and the public. AECT member companies remain dedicated to providing Texas customers with reliable service and are committed to the highest standards of integrity.