I'm so surprised you don't mention Texas has its own independent power grid. Unlike California where I presently live, that is part of a several-state power grid. Texas lives and dies by its own power and a whole lot of other stuff, like you said. I'm seriously considering TX for my future residence.
Hey, I live in Kalifornia too. I've only been to Texas once, 11 years ago.
KL, Be prepared for high taxes! And if you say anything about it, people will just say how Texas doesn't have any personal state sales tax. That is supposed to get you to shut up about the taxes while you pay, pay, pay. Thank goodness I am back home in Colorado!