About the Series: Between Two Cacti

Between Two Cacti is a conversation series from the UT Energy Institute that brings together leaders from across the energy sector for candid, forward-looking discussions on the future of energy.

Set in Austin—a place where policy, innovation, and industry increasingly intersect—the series explores the ideas, decisions, and tensions shaping today’s energy landscape. From emerging technologies and infrastructure challenges to workforce transitions and market dynamics, each conversation reflects the complexity of a system in motion.

Energy has long defined Texas. For over a century, oil and gas have powered the state’s growth, influenced its identity, and positioned it as a global energy leader. But as new resources scale and new demands emerge, that story is evolving. Texas is now at the center of multiple transitions at once—expanding renewable generation, investing in grid resilience, exploring hydrogen and carbon management, and responding to unprecedented load growth from data centers and electrification.

Between Two Cacti captures this moment through the voices of those shaping it. Featuring policymakers, industry executives, researchers, and innovators, the series goes beyond headlines and talking points to examine how decisions are made—and what they mean in practice.

These are not scripted interviews, but conversations—grounded in experience, shaped by competing priorities, and focused on what comes next.

Because in Texas, the future of energy isn’t just being discussed. It’s being decided.

Between Two Cacti is recorded live at Energy Institute events throughout the year. You can support the podcast by becoming an event sponsor or giving online today.