Madam Speaker, one of the most frustrating aspects of the explosion of artificial intelligence-driven demand for electricity is that we actually have no idea how large it will be. We know the demand for power is soaring, but estimates vary all over the place. One study from this February estimated that by the end of the decade, data centers would consume anywhere between 9 and 17 percent of all American electricity. Both of those numbers are enormous, but the gap between them is enormous, too. We simply need to get smarter about our demand forecasts. This isn't an academic point.
2026 MidtermsSafe SeatD+23R shift +5$1.0M raised
Lizzie Fletcher
Representative · Texas · Democrat
Lizzie Fletcher
House Floor
Recent comments in the House
Madam Speaker, Democrats have argued for years that growing our power grid is crucial. A grid that is too small, too dumb, and too rigid only serves to make power unreliable and increase American families' power bills. A grid that is larger, smarter, and more flexible is what we need, especially if we hope to withstand a wave of data-center-driven demand for power. While it is critical that we give grid operators new tools to build new power lines, the cheapest and quickest way to expand our grid is to get more of what we currently have.
Mr. Speaker, H.R. 9615, the BRACE Act, will help us increase the domestic recycling of batteries while keeping critical minerals found in those batteries in the United States for future use. This bill is a compromise and a win-win for the environment and our economic supply chain. First and foremost, this bill will require the Environmental Protection Agency to develop, finally, a regulatory framework specifically for lithium-ion battery recycling that addresses safety concerns while protecting public health and the environment.
Biography
Lizzie Fletcher began her career as a Houston attorney, representing individuals and businesses in complex cases. Elected to represent Texas’s 7th Congressional District in 2018, she has focused on expanding access to affordable health care, supporting infrastructure development, and advancing disaster recovery efforts. Fletcher played a key role in securing Hurricane Harvey relief funding and serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, shaping legislation on energy and environmental policy. She approaches her work with a pragmatic, collaborative style, prioritizing practical solutions for her diverse district.
Education
- J.D., College of William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA2006
- B.A. in History, Kenyon College, Gambier, OH1997
Professional History
U.S. Representative
2019–PresentRepresented Texas's 7th congressional district for 4 terms.
Partner, Ahmad, Zavitsanos, Anaipakos, Alavi & Mensing
Worked at the Houston law firm Ahmad, Zavitsanos, Anaipakos, Alavi & Mensing and became the firm's first female law partner.
Policy Focus
Energy22%
Health19%
Science, Technology, Communications8%
Environmental Protection8%
Notable Legislation
Key legislative actions from Lizzie Fletcher's record in Congress.
Hurricane Harvey Relief
Supported legislation to secure federal disaster recovery funds for Houston and Texas Gulf Coast communities after Hurricane Harvey.
Energy Workforce Legislation
Co-sponsored the Energy Workforce Modernization Act to support workforce development in the energy sector.
Maternal Health Improvement
Introduced the Helping MOMS Act to extend postpartum Medicaid coverage and improve maternal health outcomes.
Flood Mitigation Funding
Helped secure federal funding for Houston-area flood mitigation and infrastructure improvement projects.
Committee Assignments
View details →- House Committee on Energy and Commerce
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