Energy & LNG: U.S. LNG exports hit record momentum, averaging 17.4 Bcf/d in the first half of 2026 as new Gulf Coast liquefaction capacity ramps up—boosting vessel calls and tug/support work around Texas terminals. Grid & Storage: Grid battery deployments keep accelerating, with utility-scale storage capacity nearly doubling in 18 months and delivering more electricity in recent months than it did across all of the prior year—good news for ERCOT reliability planning. Oil Markets: Oil prices stayed elevated after U.S. strikes on Iranian tankers, with Brent pushing above $100 and Texas-linked WTI also climbing as shipping risk around Hormuz persists. Tech & AI Policy: Washington is back in the AI slowdown/regulation debate after major tech leaders urged restraint, setting up fresh policy fights that will ripple into Texas data-center and power planning. Space & Defense Records: SpaceX sued to block Grimes County from releasing public records tied to its Terafab project, arguing disclosure could harm competitive negotiations. Healthcare Costs: Major employers are reshaping 2027 health benefits as medical costs surge, with workers facing higher premiums and narrower coverage—an issue Texas regulators are watching too. Retail & Construction: IKEA is closing its small-format San Marcos concept store after a year, while Texas industrial and manufacturing activity continues to expand through new leases and factory announcements.