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	Sunday, August 25, 2002 Railroad Commission of Texas: On the forefront of research By Michael L. Williams Chairman, Texas Railroad Commission Oil and gas will always be the Railroad Commission of Texas’ bread and butter. It’s important that Texans also know more about some of the other things we do. A good example is our Alternative Fuels Research and Education Division. It was created in 1991, to develop new technologies and it operates marketing, training, and educational programs that maximize propane’s economic and environmental benefits to Texas. Propane is a derivative of natural gas, “homegrown” and a clean-burning fossil fuel, so it’s good public policy for us to promote its use. Here’s a rundown of four propane technology projects the RRC through AFRED is helping to develop. The RRC is working with John Deere and others to produce an ultra-low emissions propane-powered tractor. In fact, the tractor has already been built and is scheduled to begin field demonstrations in San Antonio this summer. Most of the tractors will be sold to areas struggling to keep their air clean and will most likely be used for highway maintenance, grounds keeping chores and off-road applications like backhoes. Texas is expected to be a key early-entry market. The RRC is also helping Texas’ multibillion-dollar poultry industry use propane to control pathogens and manage waste. The burner applies 900-degree heat to the floors of broiler houses, sanitizing the litter and destroying harmful bacteria like salmonella. The RRC and its partners at Texas A&M and other universities are developing 21st-century versions of the old method of using propane burners to kill weeds. Two years of field studies on cotton in Texas and Mississippi have shown that flame cultivation can provide an effective alternative to chemical herbicides. This year, the RRC and its partners will refine and seek to commercialize the next generation of high-efficiency burners, conduct field trials on cotton in four more states, and begin field trials on soybeans in Mississippi and organic vegetables in California. Many people believe it’s just a matter of time before our cars, homes and businesses will be powered by fuel cells. The RRC is at the forefront of fuel-cell technology by helping develop a 5 kW residential propane fuel cell. Over the next 18 months, the RRC and its industry partners will develop, test and demonstrate a propane-powered fuel cell that could one day help power a whole new energy industry in Texas. Don’t get me wrong. The RRC will continue to perform its traditional role of safeguarding and ensuring the orderly development of Texas’ oil and gas resources. But don’t be shocked if you hear that the venerable RRC is spearheading some high-tech propane breakthroughs as well. For more information about the Texas Railroad Commission, visit www.rrc.state.tx.us About Michael Williams: Former Governor George W. Bush appointed Michael Williams to the Railroad Commission in December 1998. In September 1999, he was chosen by his colleagues to chair the Commission and was elected statewide in November 2000. Williams is the first African-American in Texas history to hold an executive branch elected position and is the highest-ranking black in state government.   Send a Letter to the Editor about This Story Start or Join A Discussion about This Story Send the URL (Address) of This Story to A Friend: Enter their email address below: Crossing borders: Maximizing energy opportunities by Debra Guerra-Vasquez. The recent trade mission to Mexico has caused interest in Texas energy circles. Desk & Derrick Club professional, not social group by Kathy Edwards. Celebrating 50 years in Abilene, this organization supports the energy industry through education. Petrochemicals and how I use them by Nicollette Moore, Desk & Derrick Club of Abilene’s 2002 essay contest winner. Senate bill balancing act for regulators by Kathi Stapp. A closer look at what Senate Bill 310 means to Texas independent producers. Bill Stevens gives an update on the Texas Alliance of Energy Producers. The Texas Alliance of Energy Producers meets Tuesday and Wednesday at Abilene Civic Center, 601 Pine. Their agenda will keep you current on their major issues. RRC Chairman Michael Williams explains the propane projects the Texas Railroad Commission is developing. RRC Commissioner Charles Matthews writes about Texas’ abundant natural resources. The national energy bill is still in committee. Charles Stenholm gives his perspective on the proceedings. RRC Commissioner Tony Garza writes about finding a balance between utilizing our resources and protecting them. 17th District Congressional candidate Rob Beckham offers his view on the national energy bill. Energy bill possible production catalyst by Kathi Stapp. Energy reserves are in good shape, and production may get a hefty boost with the passing of the Comprehensive Energy Bill. Copyright © 1995- , E.W. Scripps Publications, All Rights Reserved. Site users are subject to our User Agreement. We also have a Privacy Policy.

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