Texas has ceased the approval of new data centers while state agencies evaluate their impact on the power grid. Governor Greg Abbott announced this pause as the industry continues to grow, highlighted by a significant $14 billion Meta campus currently being built in El Paso.
Abbott instructed state agencies to assess the electricity and water consumption of data centers, their plans for self-sufficient power, and measures to mitigate noise and traffic issues for surrounding communities. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) and the Public Utilities Commission will conduct audits before any new data center can receive approval.
Democratic gubernatorial nominee Gina Hinojosa has criticized the pause as insufficient, calling for an emergency legislative session to address the lack of regulations governing data centers. She expressed concerns over existing contracts that may threaten water resources in El Paso, emphasizing the need for community input on the matter.
